The follow-up to an EP released earlier this year by HIJK, The Pen and The Letter reprises the songs on the first release and adds seven new tracks. The new material produces increased experimentation from the group, highlighted by its strong instrumental capabilities and the interplay of vocalists Dave Tsui and Mike Mahony. That said, the strongest songs here are still the five from the EP—except “Writer’s Block” and “We Plan to Know,” two new selections that make excellent use of Mahony’s keyboards, melodica and vocal range/flexibility. The former is a poignant, lovelorn piece with keyboards heavily featured, starting off with what sounds like a pre-recording of a melodica solo and benefiting from shared lead vocals. The latter includes rhythmic keyboard, aching violin, and insistent repetition of the title phrase. Other tracks not to miss are “September Looms on a Hill,” “Center of Things,” and “Hey Sleepy Smile.” Whether or not you feel like singing their name, check out HIJK for solid emo-tinged indie rock.
--Andrew Palmacci
