Seattle’s Hey Marseilles make a great album and even better video

After more than four long years since their stellar debut album “To Travels and Trunks,” Seattle’s Hey Marseilles are finally back with their highly anticipated sophomore effort. And after giving “Lines We Trace” a spin this week, I can tell you the wait was well worth it.

The new album showcases the exceptional musicianship, singing and songwriting of the unique seven piece. It’s lush, complex, beautiful and moving. Hey Marseilles marries diverse instruments and styles into what’s been dubbed “chamber pop.” But I just call it one of the most original sounds around. It’s powerful in a quiet way, thoughtful and at times serious without taking itself too serious.

The band has always accompanied its music with tremendous performances and videos, and they’ve topped themselves this time with the hilarious video “Hey Marseilles Makes an Album,” which dramatizes the band’s recording and tour prep for “Lines We Trace.” It can’t help but put a smile on your face.

The guys were kind enough to stop by the Seattle Sounds studios (aka the KIRO Radio basement) to chat and play ahead of the release of the new album. Check out their performance and our extended conversation, enjoy the videos I posted and run, don’t walk, to buy “Lines We Trace” when it comes out on Tuesday. You won’t be disappointed.