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Elf Power: Elf Power

Orange Twin

The nostalgia that Athens, Ga. Elf Power evokes has a bit to do with leader Andrew Rieger’s pastoral scenes, a world mostly absent of modernity’s concerns. Ringing 12-string acoustics, gently fuzzy keyboards and strident McCartneyoid basslines serve as a bed while Rieger sings of a simpler, vaguely psychedelic life. But the nostalgia also has to do with Elf Power itself: 15-year college-town stalwarts, once lashed to the ambitious prow of the Elephant 6 Recording Company and since settled into a career of sturdy, stylized jangles. Drummer Eric Harris —sometimes of the Olivia Tremor Control—once again co-writes the album’s the most nimble surprise, the tumbling “Wander Through.” Occasional Elf Adrian Finch contributes the surf-washed “Stranger in the Window,” but—as usual—it’s Rieger’s show. And, despite contributions by Harris’ Olivia pals, the album reaffirms Elf Power as a gently sustainable energy source.