The latest studio album from Lotus - HAMMERSTRIKE - finds the band reaching back in order to move forward. Primarily recorded live in one room to analog tape by Bill Moriarty, the band captures a sound that harkens back to the 70s but never slips into nostalgic retreads. The compositions are focused and melodic, filled with orchestration including swelling violins and cellos, banjo, wordless choirs and electronic noises. Though the tracks range from dance floor ready rockers to soaring post-rock instrumentals the album is held together by a sanguine spirit that pervades every track.