The “eh eh oh” band is back and better than ever. Bastille’s much-anticipated second album, Wild World, exceeded all expectations. Arriving three years after their debut (a substantial break for a new band), Bastille has hit their stride and produced their best work for Wild World.

One major change the band made to find their sound on this album was adding guitar and bass. On their first album there was no guitar at all, and noticeably so. Adding guitar and upping the amount of bass on this album makes the sound more full and interesting. It also solidifies their alternative-rock status, dispelling any trace of pop. A major example of these improvements is in the track “Blame.” The heavy base line and electric guitar add excellent emotion to this song.

With every song on the album, Bastille struck a perfect balance between catchy and meaningful. “The Currents,” “Power,” “Oil on Water” and “Campus” are particularly good examples of this. They have extremely catchy and memorable choruses, yet are not lacking content and meaning in their lyrics. Hearing these songs is quite refreshing in today’s music market where you have to choose between mindless yet catchy tunes or slightly boring songs with meaning.

Not only is each song balanced, but the track list has perfect syncopation and flow. The opening song, “Good Grief,” is very upbeat and flows seamlessly into the second track, “The Currents,” which is a catchy tune with a grim message. This buildup of emotion continues throughout the album, making it easy listening.

You can hear Wild World on Apple Music, Spotify or iTunes.

Favorite songs: “Shame,” “Four Walls” and “Oil on Water”

Least favorite song: “Lethargy”

Rating: 9/10