Future Islands" romantic synth sound scales new heights with On the Water, the Baltimore trio"s most ambitious and fully realized statement yet. Built around a song cycle exploring love, loss, and memory, their latest album finds the band continuing to deliver pounding rhythms, swelling melodies, and undeniable hooks - but finding new ways to probe inner space and tug at hearts. On the Water is an addictive ride that demands repeat listens, eagerly awaiting the test of time. To produce these results, Future Islands fleshed out its sound with the additions of cello, violin, marimba, and field recordings. As with their 2010 breakthrough album In Evening Air, On the Water was produced by frequent collaborator Chester Endersby Gwazda, perhaps best known as producer of Dan Deacon"s Bromst. Noted guests include Wye Oak"s Jenn Wasner, who provides vocals on "The Great Fire," and Double Dagger"s Denny Bowen on live drums and additional percussion.