Taking the math-rock blueprint of their early EPs and turning it on its head with the addition of prog-rock and jazz influences as well as some incredibly catchy pop moments, Battles have created a record that is hypnotic, infectious, challenging and even downright frustrating at times.

Never a particularly easy ride, Mirrored definitely rewards repeat listens. Lead single Atlas is a prime case in point. The first few times I heard it I thought it was verging on the ridiculous (because it is) yet now I think it to be a work of genius (because it is).

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This is what I think

Part glam-rock stomp, part nightmare nursery rhyme, it features effect laden vocals that are almost completely unintelligible with the exception of Tyondai Braxton's self-fulfilling prophecy lyric of "sing this hook". You will sing the hook. You will find yourself whistling the helium vocal line. You will tap out the song's rudimentary rhythm on your desk at work. It will play over and over in your head as you try to sleep.

Elsewhere on the album, Race: In showcases John Stanier's considerable drumming talents, Tonto delivers a Native American style chant before some incredible guitar work and Leyendecker is the closest the album comes to an out and out dance track (albeit a downbeat one) though throughout the record the band defies categorisation.

This is fundamentally rock music but that doesn't really do it justice. 'Experimental' would almost be an appropriate tag if it didn't suggest that they were still tinkering with things.

This is a band that has honed their sound and plays each part with military precision.

Mirrored is an album that will divide opinions. Some will think it to be a fascinating musical journey; others will brand it the self-indulgent work of musos with too much time on their hands.

I think that it is a remarkable LP and will argue passionately with anyone who disagrees. Take a bow Battles - you have made this writer's record of the year.