Hawnay Troof returns from the abyss once again with the release of his third full-length album, “Daggers at the Moon,” which continues to probe the bizarre, yet rhythmically fascinating mind of Vice Cooler.

“Daggers” is steeped with ethnically-laced rhythms, as Indian, tribal and tropical melodies play over Stoic anthems and giant bass lines.

Some songs are reminiscent of Postal Services patented brand of digi-synthpop, while others have a much more raw sound. With his newest venture by Hawnay Troof, Vice Cooler has successfully created the new genre of “garage electro.”

As if being charmed like a snake, I had to re-listen to the new album several times immediately to let it all sink in. Hawnay Troof’s previous album “Islands of Ayle” had the same effect of beautiful bewilderment. The track “And I” is as gorgeous and uplifting as anything out there today.

Read The Beat’s 2008 interview with Vice Cooler here.

abrody(at)haightbeat.com