It's been a while since I found a new band among the current releases that I could honestly call a favorite, but it's happened, quite unexpectedly, with Lucius. Hooky songs, interesting arrangements, shimmering vocals, and likeable personnel. On top of all that, great songwriting technique, whether learned or instinctinve. Joyous hip music, deep biographical research, and I even break down a couple of songs to identify technique.