Light in the Attic Records

While Black Angels surely fall into the psychedelic-rock category, the opening track on their sophomore album previews a versatility that’s not often heard in an age of genre-conscious throwbacks that are too often easily pigeonholed. Though the band is named after a Velvet Underground song, Directions To See A Ghost belongs more among Earthless, Joy Division, and the Doors — a (perhaps unimaginable) combination that really is superb. Droning bass, guitar, and macabre vocals are complimented paradoxically by structured drums, some peppy tambourine, and a dash of sitar, making this Austin quintets’ latest trip a standout from its myriad peers.