A member of the Toronto scene’s Arts & Crafts record label (Broken Social Scene, Feist, Apostle of Hustle, etc.) The Most Serene Republic is a solid link in the family of talent found there, upholding Arts & Crafts’ dedication to releasing music that is solidly unique, interesting, and a cut above the majority of indie-rock hitting the airwaves these days. On the band’s sophomore release, TMSR continues to challenge the listener to stay the course, merely by introducing the unexpected at every turn.  (The first track, “Humble Peasants,” starts off with tinkling marimbas, dramatic strings and horns heralding the arrival of something magisterial, but it soon gives way to carefree whistling and clattering drums.) Population is constructed of dense layers and textures, and finding its heart takes a bit of patience. You’ll hear hints of old fashioned prog-rock, shoegazing, art-rock and of course the lush, orchestrated sound the band dipped its toe into on their debut, Underwater Cinematographer (on Population, they’re neck-deep in it). The shimmering, magisterial layers of the opener “Humble Peasants”  sets the tone for this adventurous and engaging record.