This review has proven impossible to start off with a pithy introduction sentence. Most of the ones I have come up with sound like shallow platitudes when describing just how spectacular Perfume Genius‘s Put Your Back N 2 It actually is. Masterwork. Stunning. Beautiful. All of these ring hollow in the face of the minimalistic, earnest style of this record and simply do not do this album any justice in light of just how marvelous it is.

Every aspect of this album is as close to perfection as a musician can produce. The vocals carry the best parts of Gary Jules, Joel Gibb, and even mellow Michael Hutchence. Each song is delicately constructed in a completely breathtakingly indescribable way, as if each song was lovingly wrapped in silk before being sent along to the listener. The lyrics are heartbreakingly earnest, with “Hood” and “No Tear” as the standouts. What truly makes Put Your Back N 2 It noteworthy is the minimalist detail on each song. Every note has a purpose on this record. There is no bombast, no shock and awe, no over-the-top computer antics. It’s simply an organic work that may be the most beautiful record you will hear.

(Matador Records, 304 Hudson St., 7th Floor, New York, NY 10013)