7/10

Throughout their first decade of existence, Yeah Yeah Yeahs broke through as one of the most dynamic and explosive names on the fledgling garage-rock scene at the time. With frontwoman Karen O's infectious persona laying the bedrock for countless of other names to add some much-needed flair to their material, they maintained a solid reputation for bold and energetic offerings right up until their previous outing 'Mosquito' in 2013. But now nine years later, the band are looking to embark on a new direction as they return with their fifth studio album 'Cool It Down', a record that looks for a more atmospheric guise.

Nine years away from the spotlight has clearly been a cleansing time for the trio as they look to make their long-awaited revival one that their fans will remember. From the very start, 'Cool It Down' not only stands as the title but also the mantra of this new collection. Blending raw and contemplative textures with a calming aesthetic beats within the heart of their newest full-length as they begin a journey a far cry from their origins. Obviously looking to venture into something more tender, their latest material has a beautifully matured feel to it, if not lacking in some surprises here and there.

But despite its more subdued intentions, 'Cool It Down' still makes for a rousing return from a band that barely put a foot wrong at the start. Being in no rush to work through this new release, it still has a wonderfully inviting aura to it as they continue to push their own boundaries and deliver a daring return throughout.