For a record that deals with small griefs, like roadkill and deceased pets, Gutter Rabbit by moodlighting (L.A. by way of Denver, yet dreaming of being a Melbourne band) sounds life-affirming instead. Often striking the balance between nostalgic melancholy and rays of sunshine, the band’s second album fully delivers on the promise of their early singles.

It’s lo-fi and delicate, with a heart full of pop. Take Ahoy for example, a song that starts out nice and strummy, then hooks you with an infectious chorus backed by jangly guitar and some fine woodblock tapping. Or the chime and lushness of Anna, where the gentle angelic delivery of moodlighting singer Sophie is spine-tingling. At 16 songs, Gutter Rabbit leaves much, much more to discover.

Out now at Gopher Records.

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