Because of a tape malfunction, this Olympia, Washington quintet was forced to switch from analog to digital recording during this album’s sessions. The results are no less homespun in feel than the band’s previous work, however — lead singer/songwriters Eli Moore and Ashley Eriksson still project a natural warmth, complimented by their ensemble’s light, supple instrumental approach. What anchors this album’s sometimes-ethereal arrangements is a sure rhythmic sense, often taking on the contours of smooth jazz. “Roger Miller” and “Bird and the Berry” glide upon airy grooves, offering contrast to gentle folk pieces like “Skeleton Costume” and buoyant pop numbers like “The Stars.” “Mother Nature’s Promise” fuses a jig-like dance beat with sleek synth lines and a festive horn/sax combination. As always, Lake’s luminous, choir-like group vocals add a uniquely uplifting element to the tracks. Beneath the genial surface ambiance of the album is a call to respect the natural world, expressed tenderly in “Pilgrim’s Day” and with a note of warning in “Distant Stars.”