Luluc - Passerby (2014)

Moving from Australia to Brooklyn, Luluc obviously have great ambition even as their music reveals gentle hearts and subtle shades of beauty. The duo of Zoe Randell and Steve Hassett reach new heights on their second album, Passerby, which is their first release for Seattle’s Sub Pop Records. They count Joe Boyd (producer of Nick Drake and Fairport Convention) as a fan, and it’s easy to hear why as Randell hits impossible yet transcendent notes on the title track. Here, coproducer Aaron Dessner of The National brings in members of Bon Iver, The National, Beirut, and Sufjan Stevens’ band, and Luluc can expand on the simplicity of their debut, Dear Hamlyn, without being overwhelmed. Their debut album took nine years to write and refine, while Passerby took another six to see release. Their unhurried approach ensures that songs like “Winter Is Passing,” “Tangled Heart,” and “Senja” aren't toss-offs and that their performances are up their exacting standards. Randell’s introspection on “Reverie on Norfolk Street” turns a romantic eye in a moment of touching sentiment.