If Empire of the Sun’s goal is to transport listeners to another world with their music, I’d say they’re doing a pretty good job. They somehow always manage to create a fantasy-like ambiance in their songs. With a dazzling headpiece and flashy outfits, the Australian duo has returned to deliver an album to satisfy our eardrums.

When Empire of the Sun came into the music scene with Walking on a Dream, they caused a stir with their experimental nature and whimsical music. They lost a bit of their momentum when Ice on the Dune came out, but they seem to bring it back on the latest album Two Vines. While not having the initial charm that their first album had, Two Vines brings about poppy tunes infused with electronic elements.

Two Vines starts slow with “Before”, a groovy tune that pairs well with singer Luke Steele’s airy vocals.  The album then kicks into gear with the first single “High and Low.” A song inspired by a childhood friend, group member Nick Littlemore hoped to lyrically channel the experiences of adolescence. There is an innocence in track as Steele sings, “Now we are running in a pack to the place you don’t know/And I want you to know that I’ll always be around.”

As the album progresses, we reach the track “Friends.” It is a curious composition as a sluggish drum beat eventually transforms into a danceable breakdown. While I think the band went a little too heavy with the auto-tune, the captivating synths makes up for it.

Towards the end of the album, their slower tempo songs take the spotlight. “Digital Life” offers a more futuristic track with industrial steam intertwining with an oriental sounding melody. “To Her Door” closes the album with a triumphant ballad that features the beautiful guitar playing of Lindsey Buckingham from Fleetwood Mac.

Empire of the Sun’s unique style alone draws attention, but their creativity with music is what makes fans stay. Their music never fails to take the listener on a journey to a colorful paradise. Two Vines certainly does that with a vivid ride through their jubilant jungle.

Empire of the Sun will be playing a show at the Great Saltair on December 3.