Space cowboy rock. Starbucks alt-country. Lumberjack Pop.

However you want to label the new Band of Horses album, one thing is for sure;  it’s pretty damn fun to listen to. And last I checked, that’s what music was supposed to be about. Beautiful layered harmonies, playful guitar and enough hooks to catch a whale. While a few of the slower songs may drag a bit, for the most part this is a solid collection of toe-tapping diddies that you won’t mind getting stuck in your head.

The band’s latest collection of tunes has a little something for everyone.  There is plenty of vintage BOH style on this record to keep old fans happy, and newby friendly songs like “Compliments”, “Laredo”, “Dilly” and “Northwest Apartment” serve as a great introduction to the band for new listeners.   The band’s folky sound hasn’t gone anywhere, but unlike many others in this genre they aren’t paralized by the distinction. Take away all the burly beards and flannel, and you’ve got a pretty poppy rock album; and a damn good one at that.

It’s clear that these tunes aren’t going to change the world or fill stadiums but Ben Bridwell and crew seem more interested in making someone smile than starting a revolution. With Infinite Arms they solidify their role as band best suited to play on a sunny afternoon in your backyard. It might not be the most ambitious business model, but it puts them right in the center of a good time nonetheless.

The band is streaming the album in it’s entirety here for the weeks following it’s release.