After much acclaim for the Postal Service album, Ben Gibbard went back to his day job as leader of Death Cab For Cutie to produce their fourth album. But whilist 'Give Up' grabbed the plaudits its literate electro-pop did lack a certain edge. This criticism is quickly addressed right from the start of 'Transatlanticism' as crunching guitars usher in 'The New Year' a satisfying return to rock values. 'We Looked Like Giants' too adds a layer of urgency to the sound and it's no coincidence these two tracks are the most memorable. Generally speaking, though, the group opt for melancholic guitar escapades of a considerably subtler shade best heard on 'Title And Registration' and 'Lack Of Color'. 'Passenger Seat' is a decent example of the group at their softest; all quivering vocals and elegant piano but 'The Sound Of Settling' edges towards the annoyingly twee with its annoying "Ba-ba Ba-ba" chorus. In much the same way as Snow Patrol's 'Final Straw' Death Cab For Cutie are better when they are angrier.