Infinite Arms is the third studio release from Seattle based Band of Horses, also the third with producer Phil Ek. However, he is the one of the few things unchanged, with the band having undergone a minor shakeup. Infinite Arms also marks their first release on a major commercial label, Columbia Records.

Band of Horses are capable of making beautiful music, there is no denying that. Indeed, this is a good record, but I would argue that it isn’t one to rave about. While it has some brilliant moments, otherwise it's a bit of a slow burner. For me it is a case of not meeting the expectations. After Cease to Begin there were some high expectations; that were a great record, one which I raved to friends about – and by comparison, Infinite Arms just seems flat to me. I am hoping that it is an album that will grow on me, and certainly there are a few tracks which have already gained high rotation status on my iPod. I think my problem is that there is no real progression in terms of sound, it’s much the same, and there is nothing wrong with playing to your strengths, but experiment a little.

I fear I may be coming across as too harsh, I really do like the album, I just don’t love it. "Factory" is a nice opener, some great lush instrumentation, all topped off with some exquisite vocals, reaffirming that Ben Bridwell really does have a wonderful voice- equal parts haunting and gripping. The album segues nicely into first single "Compliments", another strong song. Sonically similar to the songs on their previous album, it’s a fun song, it’s upbeat and really is the perfect first single. While probably my favourite song on the album, it does face competition from track 3, "Laredo", which is probably going to end up being my holiday driving song! It has a great rhythm and a nice Summer feel to it, perfect for forgetting that winter is setting in. Another issue I have is that from this strong opening, it all sort of peters out; it all slows down. This does have the advantage of highlighting the vocals more, which are impressive throughout. In fact, the title song really is a great vocal performance and is a great countrified slow rock song. The whistling is a nice touch.

Infinite Arms is a good strong album, I just feel it could do more. There’s no denying that there are some great songs within though, and I would recommend that you all give it a try.

Download Highlights: Factory / Compliments / Laredo / Infinite Arms

Review Score: 7.5/10