Once while listening to "Uncle Albert/Admiral Halsey" from Paul McCartney's 1971 solo effort, Ram, a friend remarked that the song's intrinsic ethereal pop qualities lodged themselves deep inside one's mind, perhaps more so than any power electronics or noise music could reach. Beach House manages to accomplish the same feat.

Utilizing a small collection of vintage as well as newer synthesizers and organs, voice-and-guitar Beach House craft an aural time-release narcotic that mimics the effects of a potent muscle relaxer. Shortly into the duo's sophomore album, Devotion, the body loosens; the mind softens as it becomes entranced by simple organ-generated percussion that provides a muted structure from which to broadcast the vaporous melodies of singer Victoria Legrand. Subtle flair is provided by Alex Scally, whose guitar playing began specifically for Beach House.

Devotion explores the meaning of the word itself. The dual state of being that individuals assume once they have chosen to allow themselves to meld with another. Legrand does not seem interested in criticizing earnest attachments birthed by love, but rather the often indistinguishable difference between complete surrender and the profound reward that devoting oneself to others can inspire. In other words, the album's lyrical themes twist and turn through the typically poorly illuminated tunnel of love that none of us can fight the urge to ride.

Audio: Beach House downloads here.