Stars, the Canadian baroque–pop quintet, are back this fall with their sixth full–length album, "The North." The album opens with “Theory of Relativity,” a track that’s classic Stars, weaving together singer Torquil Campell’s even notes with the high chimes of Amy Millan’s voice. “Hold On When You Get Love And Let Go When You Give It” is a stand–out, equal parts lush guitars and steadily building beats, and closer “Walls” presents Stars’ brand of hushed sentimentality at its best. "The North" might not boast the soaring, cohesive heartbreak of 2004’s "Set Yourself On Fire," but it’s certainly worth a listen. Or ten.

4/5 Stars