In Case We Die

Following up their ambitious 2003 debut just two years later with this similarly complex, challenging set, Australia's Architecture in Helsinki established themselves as purveyorsof tongue-in-cheek prog-rock for people who shudder at the term. Witty lyrics playfully mingle with majestic melodies, voiced on an array of instruments--electronic, orchestral, standard rock--and vocal permutations. The band explores Sparks-infused punkabilly ("The Cemetary"), symphonic cabaret ("Nevereverdid"), slinky pop ("Maybe You Can Owe Me"), and multi-part song cycles that wink as they soar.