Cold, mysterious and as intriguing as ever, UNKLE have released their fifth studio album Where Did The Night Fall. Since breathing life to this would-be robust team in 1994, UNKLE (specifically James Lavelle and his ever changing cohorts) have evolved from a trip-hop and hip hop sound, with the artwork typical of Lavelle’s old Mo’ Wax label, to then a heavier electronic angle, beginning with several DJ mixes and probably peaking at War Stories when Psychonauts member Pablo Clements was introduced to the team.

Yet this new album has introduced a stronger Britpop element to their sound. Having recently reviewed Delphic and recognised the rise of the old Manchester styles, it’s interesting to see a band like UNKLE fuse these elements into their own psychedelic interpretation.

The ambience, however, has never departed from the UNKLE style and Where Did The Night Fall is no exception. The Answer, with the aid of instrumental trio Big In Japan (no, not the ‘70s punk super-group), had a somewhat joyous, almost choral intensity to it. Fresh(er) collaborators have also been introduced, with percussionists from London’s Heritage Orchestra adding to the dynamic qualities, and Katrina Ford from Celebrations taking the album out of its depths with her eclectic vocals on Caged Bird.

I may be stretching it with this comparison, but little-known Elle J’s second appearance on the album The Runaway channels a softer version of Fever Ray’s playful electrics; not that ‘playful’ would be the optimum description. At times, it feels as though the delicacy of their sounds and the perfection of their timing could only be appreciated by a discerning ear.

Even tracks such as Natural Selection and Ever Rest at opposite ends of the album can feel a little too slow and sedated. Having said that, Another Night Out (if you aren’t listening to the Special Edition CD) beautifully closes the album with Mark Lanegan’s meditative humming. A fitting release for the changing season, I highly recommend taking the time to explore this album to its depths.

Where Did The Night Fall is out now on Pod/Surrender All through Inertia.