Ra Ra Riot, 'The Rhumb Line'

Backstory: Syracuse University students formed Ra Ra Riot in 2006 and were really on to something with their self-titled EP of unique, symphonically informed indie rock (the group includes violinist Rebecca Zeller and cellist Alexandra Lawn). They’re a terrific young band that’s already known too much heartache: drummer John Pike died in June 2007, an apparent drowning victim, but the group has pushed on, recording their full-length debut in late 2007 with drummer Cameron Wisch.

Why you should care: On their EP, Ra Ra Riot seemed incredibly talented but slightly shy. By re-recording the previously released tunes and adding six new ones with fuller production for “The Rhumb Line,” they’ve stepped up the drama to make what was gentle surprisingly punchy and what was calm into something simmering and ominous. “Ghost Under Rocks” and “Can You Tell,” in particular, emerge from their shells as something not delicate but desperate, tense and compelling.

Verdict: Wonderfully cohesive and impressively realized as a debut, “The Rhumb Line” pulls you through from start to finish. “Each Year” is now quicker yet more mournful (and maybe just a tad too rockin’), balancing a catchy refrain with grim lyrics delivered with soul and passion by singer Wesley Miles. A stunning version of Kate Bush’s “Suspended in Gaffa” maintains the overall sense of excitement and urgency. For already converted fans who liked the restless quiet of the EP, “The Rhumb Line” steers things in a different, anxious direction that will take some getting used to. If you’re new to the band, you’d be foolish to resist.

X-Factor: If gas prices have emptied your pockets, there are live versions of “Suspended in Gaffa,” “Each Year” and two other songs available as free downloads on the band’s Web site (www.rarariot.com).

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