Via Audio‘s new CD Animalore – released in early March – gives us a fresh new sound, inspired to the glorious Motown years, but also reminiscent of some of the more elegant pop of the early 90s’ – for example, we hear some Prefab Sprout influences in the bands’ sophisticated jazzy melodies and arrangements. Jazz as a matter of fact seems to be the main new ingredient, bringing the band’s sound closer to orchestral pop artists like Claire and The Reason and My Brightest Diamond, with whom they also share high production values on record. Unlike these artists though, the upbeat pop element is still Via Audio’s trademark – check out the dancey track "Babies" (streaming under this review) and other tunes on their Myspace page. Currently on tour, the Brooklyn quartet will be back live in NYC at Le Poisson Rouge on 04.17 – a venue particularly appropriate for their new sound.