Long-standing Xi’an instrument rock Hupo (dropping their previous English moniker Amber) forges a new, bold path on their assured, confident and evolutionary new LP, a few sparks, released with 1724 Records. A dramatic shift into krautrock territory is only the beginning of fresh surprises found within the eight tracks here - with the band injecting psychedelic and jazz vitality, ambient and experimental music sensibilities, and even some traditional music in for good measure. It’s a deconstruction of their post rock roots that shakes everything readily loose - allowing their melodies to wander forth amongst hills of repeating motifs and clouds of sonic abstraction - a scenic journey rich and bursting with life. A transformative record that acts as a reintroduction to one of the scene’s most unsung acts.