The Double approach rock songwriting with a diverse vocabulary and instrumentation that layers vocal harmony and heavy distorted keyboards onto a disorienting yet exacting array of percussive sounds. Their 2002 debut 'Loose Crochet' (54/40 Or Fight), recorded as a duo, introduced their curious blend of home-style American musics and noisy rhythmic experimentation, but it was last year's "Palm Fronds" (Catsup Plate) - their first as a quartet - that confirmed the depth of their idiosyncrasy and allure, with simplified song structures and a broader instrumental palette. Undeniably virtuosic, THE DOUBLE also embrace improvisation and human error, which gives their songs their vulnerability and heart.

The foursome of David Greenhill, Jeff McLeod, Donald Beaman and Jacob Morris have soaked up considerable acclaim in the past year, highlighted by a Peel Session recorded whilst in the UK supporting Blonde Redhead and Interpol. Closer to home, the band are about to embark on a US tour supporting Ratatat, followed by an appearance on Matador's South By Southwest Cavalcade Of Stars package on March 18 (The Parish, Austin, TX). Recording of the band's second album (and first for Matador) is scheduled to begin later this spring, with an eye towards release in the Autumn of 2005.