Poi Dog Pondering

Given the resurgence of worldbeat sounds favored by slightly left-of-center rock bands Vampire Weekend and the Dodos, maybe now really is the time for a Poi Dog Pondering comeback. The mercurial and eclectic '80s cult faves built their reputation on highly danceable, globetrotting pop and folk orchestrations, not to mention nonsensically sweet sentiments about ancient Egypt and beautiful spoons. On the band's new album, 7, Frank Orrall and his ever-expanding collective curve toward classic soul music — bopping horns appear as often as sailing strings and mandolins — while dorking out on lyrical warm fuzzies such as "Butterflies" and "Baby Together" (as in, maybe we can make one). After twenty years of quirky, poppy party music, Poi Dog isn't about to learn any new tricks — but the ones it knows sound fresh and fun enough.