Cool and bazaar album covers tend to pique ones interest about an unknown band. And if you’re already a fan, then it simply strengthens the allegiance. For me, it sealed the deal. A spaceship cat—that’s a pretty dope concept!

I got to see Klaxons back in 2007, and by accident at a Bjork show at Madison Square Garden. We were busy drinking at the bar and almost missed their opening performance. I remember settling down in my seat, listening with farrowed brows, and then turning to my friend saying, “We should’ve got our drinks to go; these guys are great!” At the time, they had just released their debut album Myths of the Near Future, which featured their award-winning single “Golden Skans.”

Now with their second album, Surfing the Void, they stay close to their psychedelic, progressive, pop, rock roots. Currently based in London, the band managed to get LA producer, Ross Robinson (who has produced Sepultura, Slipknot, At the Drive In, The Cure) to produce Surfing the Void. The album is dark, with sinister elements interchanging between the great musical arrangements and melodies that match perfectly. You could say the pop element of what they do is in the melody — you’ll be singing along with them in no time! Check out a couple of tunes below, then head over to iTunes to get yourself a copy of Klaxons.

Valley of Calm Trees

Audio clip: Adobe Flash Player (version 9 or above) is required to play this audio clip. Download the latest version here. You also need to have JavaScript enabled in your browser.

Cypherspeed

Audio clip: Adobe Flash Player (version 9 or above) is required to play this audio clip. Download the latest version here. You also need to have JavaScript enabled in your browser.