Welcome to the Mood

Romantic longing and devotion suffuses the fifth album from Auckland collective LEISURE. A full decade after the six members first convened, their unique brand of modern soul sounds more sincere than ever as multiple members take turns at the mic to serenade the song’s subjects. “I find my diamonds in you” goes the falsetto refrain of “Diamonds,” while similar sentiments guide “Dominoes” and “One in a Million.” The airy “Beach House” imagines buying the titular retreat for one’s lover and falling asleep together against the soothing sound of waves. LEISURE wanted fewer programmed elements and more live arrangements this time around, so they tapped outside guests for selective strings, brass, piano, and backing vocals. Yet, these songs are much more intimate than they are expansive, always sounding like sweet nothings being whispered from the next pillow. As for the music, it remains distinctly smooth and supple, with occasional reggae and funk tinges sneaking into the easygoing proceedings.