There’s a spectrum of sorts when it comes to melody in instrumental rock. Some bands will introduce one melody and chisel it over time, using the power of repetition to drive a narrative. Other bands will compile many melodies played in quick succession, opting for variety rather than development.

New Haven trio Ourselves Alone is undoubtedly in the latter group. The band pick from an ostensibly infinite supply of technical guitar phrases, jazzy chord progressions and rapidly changing soundscapes. Their fast, noisy and unpredictable approach places them amongst other rising math acts like Lingua Nada and Space Corolla, bands who march the fine line between glowing coherent pop sensibilities and all-out dissonant cacophony.

The proof is in the pudding as you delve into Elusive Firsts. This new LP is another firm foot in the ground for Ourselves Alone, an album that matches the vivacity and madcap stylings of bands like Postmadonna and Tera Melos. Elusive Firsts will surely strike a chord with the emo revival nerds, pop punkers, jazz dorks, and math rock pundits alike, borrowing from each of these genres to forge its sound. This is an album so densely packed with instrumental quirks and interludes that there’s going to be something you like in here. Trust us, it’s a very dense fruit tree.