Originally released last fall to massive critical acclaim, the second album from this New York quartet (down to a trio since the recording) is being sent back to the front of record store racks as a double LP that pairs the overwhelming sounds of the original release’s 10 ornate tracks with equally powerful remixes from a cast including The Field, The Hundred in the Hands, High Places and Justin K. Broadrick of Jesu and Godflesh. The remix companion shuffles the track order a bit, but the musical range of both multi-faced collections of individually intense songs synchs up tightly and either disc plays out as a diverse, yet complete endeavor. Whereas the original “Beast in Peace” kicks off the album with a cycle of tension and release, the remix discs kicks off the The Hundred in the Hands stretching it out to become a dancefloor cut that toys with the same tension. The original “Lovesick Teenagers” may be a slow burn with moments of fitting cathartic release, up and coming producer Twin Shadow strips it down to fit into the naked funk of the post-punk era before dressing everything up for a surprise ending. The Field’s version of “Ultimate Satisfaction” takes a less revolutionary approach and instead focuses on expanding the original’s murky mood with a slower delivery and a minimalized sonic approach. The remix companion highlights and pays homage to the diverse strengths of the original album, providing alternative routes for the band’s inviting expressions while providing a fitting counterpoint to the original listen.

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