Audio Mixer: John McEntire.

Recording information: SOMA Electronic Music Studios, Chicago, IL.

Issued in late 2008, CAR ALARM marks the Sea & Cake's second studio album since its '07 reactivation, and stands as one of the Chicago post-rock act's most immediately engaging outings. Fronted, as always, by singer/guitarist Sam Prekop, the quartet launches into a Neu!-like motorik sound with the driving "Aerial," and later moves into Velvet Underground territory on the chiming and urbane "On a Letter." Though some fans may miss the Sea & Cake's earlier experimental-leaning era, CAR ALARM proves that the group is undeniably vital and still carrying the mantle of Windy City indie-rock royalty without burden.