If the title to Perfume Genius’ first album Learning is any indication, Mike Hadreas has certainly done just that. That first album was intriguing, but was filled with demo style tracks with lyrics and a vocal delivery system that sounded like Hadreas was on the verge of crying and a mental break down. With his second LP, Hadreas has stepped up the production and sound quality of his recordings, as well as a different perspective of sad evoking lyrics that seem more comforting than needy.

The music here is very minimalist, but the lyrics educe tragedy while being very beautiful in nature. In that way they are comforting, and Hadreas delivers them via a tender and passionate mode that sounds like a more fragile Sufjan Stevens through A Sun Came!. Many of the tracks feature Hadreas and just a piano, hearkening back to the Learning experience. Every now and then, however, there are lush arangements (“Normal Song,” “Take Me Home,” “Dark Parts,” and the first single “Hood”), which may hint at the direction in which Perfume Genius’ sound is going.

Through the “less is more” method of song writing, Perfume Genius have added another endearing and just classic album to their discography. Those looking for more of Learning should be satisfied with the results, and those looking for more complete pieces should also find the results to their liking. If you think Hadreas is just being lazy with these tracks, judging by song length, think again; listen and be amazed!

Album Rating: Buy It on CD or Vinyl

Listening Co-efficient: Active Listen

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