Imagine going back ten yearswhat advice would you give your younger self? Khruangbin reflected on this as they celebrated the ten-year anniversary of their debut album, The Universe Smiles Upon You, which evolved from a cult favorite into a masterpiece.

Band member Laura Lee said, If we could tell ourselves what was coming after that record, what would we celebrate? Instead of dwelling on the past, they looked forward: Lets do it again.

This inspired them to record The Universe Smiles Upon You ii from January 4-6, 2025, in the same barn where TUSUY was first made ten years earlier. The setting was familiardirt floor, cold, minimal soundproofing, all live recordingsbut the music approach was fresh. Some songs were reimagined more than others, maintaining TUSUYs energy while exploring new directions.

The result is a collection of ten tracks with a sense of space, calm, and creative freedom. The barns atmosphere adds intimacylisten for birds on August Twelve iiand the sounds of rattles and creaks. Its a tapestry of subtle movements and delicate arrangements, revitalizing music that feels like reconnecting with an old friendfamiliar yet new after ten years.