Reptaliens are ready to be direct. After exploring surreal realms of highconcept synth-pop across two acclaimed albums, the Portland, Oregon, duo gained newfound clarity in a stark, grounded approach. That may seem unexpected for such a colourful act—known for heady lyrics about conspiracy theories and transhumanism—but Cole and Bambi Browning have streamlined to the lean, propulsive essentials on their self-produced new LP, Multiverse.