It’s the 20th anniversary of Sloan’s beloved sophomore record, Twice Removed, and the Toronto-based foursome are still digging the number two, following up 2011’s The Double Cross with a new double album, Commonwealth (Yep Roc).
Meant to be listened to as four stand-alone sides on vinyl, Commonwealth plays up each member’s strengths and interests, with playing-card-themed suites by Jay Ferguson (diamond), Chris Murphy (heart), Patrick Pentland (clubs) and Andrew Scott (spade). But even while showing off their diversity, the songwriting vets keep it tightly and delightfully together.