The Year Of The How-To Book

　Asian pressing of the 2010 album from the Nebraska-based outfit. Without wishing to tempt fate, Eagle Seagull have gracefully swooped into the category of buzz bands, ones to watch, emerging new talent, call it what you will. Fortunately, the hype is backed up by a more than promising eponymous debut album (in 2006) and this rip-roaring sequel emboldened by several years of solid touring. The Year of the How-To Book is awash with jangling melody and serene strings without sacrificing any of the energy of its predecessor. In a world that has become so referential (it sounds like A plus B in a blender with a pinch of acid) and the long tail leading us ever downward to Venn diagrams of the like-minded (if you bought that, you'll probably fork out for this), it becomes harder than ever to happen upon a sound that comes out of nowhere.