While constructing their new LP, No Delta, MA-based duo October Surprise has been on quite a journey. Following 2007's Vapor Trail, they took their no-nonsense brand of indie rock and turned it inside-out on the EP Concrete Box, a trippy swerve into the vaporous atmosphere of electronic beats and auto-tune. It's certainly been a long time coming, but old friends Jon Fricchione (guitarist, vocals, effects) and Conor Garrison (drums, effects) have certainly taken advantage of the 3+ years of exploration, honing their songwriting and musicianship along the way. Their evolution is clear and the new record oozes a musical confidence that many 21-year-olds simply don't have. Fricchione's dynamic vocals don't hide behind anything and Garrison's rhythmic timekeeping is varied and packs a punch. The boys let loose on “Atom”, which features a driving guitar solo juxtaposed to a lengthy, halcyon breakdown. Their newfound fearlessness allows them to create a sound all their own, distinctive yet familiar. Standout track “The Mute” opens with a catchy-as-hell bass line that drives its way to a soul-shaking vocal screech (you'll know it when you hear it), followed by a dissonant, marching outro. The music is experimental yet inviting, covering rock, folk, electronica and more without ever devolving into stylistic schizophrenia. This accessibility is accomplished with meticulous arrangements, an organized and relatable ambling through their influences and experiences. From Radiohead to DJ Shadow to Neil Young and more, they have expanded their emotional palette, fusing their youthful energy with engaging and often darker themes; the haunting “Driveway” is characterized by eerie staccato riffs while Fricchione echoes, “What I wanna know is/If there is a place for me.” There certainly should be a place for October Surprise's enthralling new album, No Delta, as one or two spins would only be the first leg of a limitless (and fascinating) journey. --Louis Serino