Before releasing its 2011 debut EP, Don’t Worry, You’ll Be Here Forever, Los Angeles six-piece NO was a relatively unknown indie rock band with few aspirations beyond writing atmospheric songs buttressed by evocative songwriting. But after a series of successful years touring with the likes of Best Coast and Father John Misty, the group led by Bradley Hanan Carter (vocals) has released a memorable full length debut on Arts & Crafts, El Prado. Carter’s voice has already been compared to those of Matt Berninger (The National) and Paul Banks (Interpol), but NO’s impact is felt through a combination of organic parts: the swelling guitars of Reese Richardson, Ryan Lallier and Simon Oscroft, the adept drumming of Michael Walker and proficient bass lines of Daniel Stentz provide an elegant constellation of forces revolving around the vocals. Of the storytelling on El Prado there is much to say, and upon multiple listens it becomes difficult to reject any likeness to Berninger. Carter unabashedly exposes listeners to his self-consciousness and regrets, but harmonizes them with hopeful, confident tunes. On “What’s Your Name,” an example of the former, Carter recalls a fleeting romance, “Tell me darling I can’t stay/Turned around and she said/Can’t you tell me what’s your name/I’m singing of a lonesome/Of a lonesome day.” El Prado is at once a charming display of songwriting, and again a gratifying piece of music that proves comparisons can tell only half the story. Indeed, NO has perfected a sound all its own. (Arts & Crafts, arts-crafts.ca) Harrison Samphir