You never know when it is going to happen, but sometimes an album comes along that is packed with everything you like about music, and you feel like you've gotta tell everyone about it. That's how many critics felt about Pond's self titled debut when it was released two years ago. Admirably, Pond cover more ground on The Practice Of Joy Before Death. While they could have put together ten 4 minute gems and called it the follow-up, they instead stretch themselves to a14 song, near hour-long album. Their songs run the gammit from slow grind to blistering and abrasive. At times the band even steps out from behind its wall of ear candy, featuring more simple guitar-vocal arrangements. While The Practice Of Joy Before Death isn't as immediately fulfilling as its predecessor, its depth and musical range make it a triumph for the band.

-Tom Cornell