This New York two-piece were lucky enough to record at London's renowned Olympic Studios (which has previously hosted such obscure acts as The Beatles, The Rolling Stones and Led Zeppelin) shortly before it closed its doors for good. Here, they created new versions of songs from their three full-lengths - this year's Hush, Citrus (2006) and Asobi Seksu (2004), plus a luscious cover of "Suzanne" by Hope Sandoval (Mazzy Star).

Frequently compared to the shoegazing likes of Slowdive, Chapterhouse, Ride and, of course, My Bloody Valentine, the duo weave some dreamlike soundscapes but avoid sounding like they're straight out of the early 90s indie scene. A more recent reference point might be Blonde Redhead, though Asobi Seksu are softer sounding, less hip, more concerned with atmosphere than driving choruses.

Singer Yuki Chikudate writes in both English and Japanese and is somehow winsomely affecting even when you don't understand what she's saying. Her voice is clear, soothing and perfectly suited to these acoustic tracks.

An album which comprises a selection of a little-known band's back catalogue played acoustically isn't likely to bring them out from under the radar. But it should, and in a fairer world it would. This is a well-timed release too: perfect winter music, these gentle songs evoke the feeling of being snowed in, drawing magical landscapes on the window condensation.

Charting their career while re-imagining the songs with a refined sense of their sound, this record is a good starting point for newcomers while also being of interest to hardcore fans. This may be the end for Olympic Studios, but it heralds a new phase for Asobi Seksu and their increasingly sophisticated songwriting.
Alexis Somerville