Album Review: Andrew Bird - Are You Serious

A new album from Andrew Bird is always an exciting prospect.

He is both artist and artisan, creating complex chamber pop constructions that often boast exquisite beauty. His latest release is another great example of Bird's penchant for (re)invention, revealing a far more urban sensibility than his bucolic previous efforts. This collection has a harder edge, a late '70s soul vibe that has bounce and swagger, and while it's still bathed in light and warmth it's a cockier album that is energised and invigorating.