7/10

Throughout their enigmatic tenure to date, New Mexico's Woven Talon have always looked to explore a more multifaceted approach than most. Blending poly-rhythmic layers of ancestral voices, world percussion, hypnotic strings, and soulful earthy melodies with everything they produce, they have spent much of the last few years developing this wildly immersive aesthetic that always manages to find something new and interesting in which to explore. And after another wave of much-loved outings in recent months, they are back once again with their latest studio album 'Bao Somwa', a record that rekindles much of that initial magic once again.

Building upon the sprawling endeavours that have come before, 'Bao Somwa' sets itself up as this brilliantly broad and inventive listen. Adding this progressive intent to every cut on the release, the band are able to create this subtle build and ascent across all ten tracks, keeping us intrigued with every new groove throughout. Fans of their previous material will certainly be lapping this up, while those just discovering them will have a strong and confident introduction to their sound as they look to make this new LP one of their more captivating to date.

They have certainly made a lasting impact over these last few years, but 'Bao Somwa' shows there is still plenty of adventurous spirit coursing through them right now. Brimming with this sense of warmth and vigour at every turn, Woven Talon continue to shine across this expressive new offering.