Out Her Space is a return to his own quirky and alluring form of music-making. Back in 2009, Blau recorded country-psych band the Great White Jenkins, fronted by Matthew E. White. Three years later, when White created the Spacebomb label (named for his orchestral-soul house band project), he called on Blau once more. The resultant album was White's Big Inner. Having heard Blau's demos for this set, White returns the favor by not only playing guitar but bringing the Spacebomb House Band along. Megafaun pianist Phil Cook, various other horn and string players, and backing vocalists also contribute, with Blau returning to producing himself.

Out Her Space contrasts with its predecessor in employing a mélange of soul, funk, jazz, indie, Afro-pop, and yes, country in these eight songs. First single "Slow Children" is a case in point: its sweet pop melody is framed by Nigerian and Beninese juju-styled guitars, hovering brass, layers of synthetic and organic percussion, and an infectious hook. It's followed by second single "Poor the War Away," which juxtaposes hypnotic dubwise rhythm and bass tracks with a slippery pop melody, thin, reedy rapping, and classically arranged horns, with White adding angular guitar breaks.

Despite its evocation of many source inspirations all applied in unusual ways, Out Her Space is pure Blau. He never lets his ambitious charts get in the way of his melodies, ample spaciousness, and warm multivalent textures. Add to this excellent core songwriting and inspired playing from all involved, and this date follows Introducing Karl Blau like a falling domino. All killer, no filler.

Track Listing:

Slow Children Poor the War Away Beckon Valley of Sadness Blue As My Name I've Got the Sounds (Like You've Got the Blues) Where Ya Goin' Papa Dub the War Away

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