The mystical musical genius of Trevor Powers, better known as “Youth Lagoon,” plans to release “Savage Hills Ballroom,” his third album since beginning in 2011. The album’s official release date was Friday, Sept. 25 from Fat Possum records. The Boise, Idaho native has stretched his sounds far beyond the Northwest, with the majority of his listeners coming from London, England, according to Spotify. His previous works possess dreamy and grungy synth pop to leave you lying on the floor questioning the universe. Like the two albums before “Savage Hills Ballroom,” this 10-track album will not disappoint listeners.

BREAKING DOWN WALLS

Powers breaks down even more walls this time around, letting his fans sink into a deeper level of his consciousness. In an article with Pitchfork, Powers said, “I think I’ve had a lot of barriers in my life in general that I don’t let people past, and I’ve gotten really sick of all that. It’s too tiring trying to pretend you don’t have as many flaws as everyone else.” The album forces the audience into coming to terms with their own reality as well as his.

CHRISTIAN THEMES

What used to be vague and grumbled stanzas in past albums are now clearly articulated creating a more raw understanding of his songs’ deeper meaning. This is part of Powers’ newly found emphasis on conveying his bare thoughts. The album’s third track, “The Knower,” contains lyrics questioning the human condition of denial and Powers’ personal struggle with it. The album even includes exploration of Christian themes.

“Highway Patrol Stun Gun,” the second track and my favorite from the album, features the line, “Dripping in blood, waiting for Your return/In repetition hall of the nocturne/Oh raise me up, oh raise me from the dirt.” These images appear subtle to the average listener, but Powers clearly hints at a religious reference.

TRUE TALENT

In addition to experiencing Powers’ actual thoughts for the first time, the overall sound of “Savage Hills Ballroom” is much more crisp than his earlier works. Recorded in Bristol, England and co-produced by Ali Chant, this album reveals Powers’ true talent, acting as almost a second debut. He does layer his voice with synths, drums, keys, horns and erratic noises like the last two albums. And much like the last two, “Savage Hills Ballroom” presents a cacophonous mix of sounds that give you unexpected chills.

With tracks to both dull the mind and awaken the heart, “Savage Hills Ballroom” is an exciting new chapter for Youth Lagoon.Youth Lagoon will also play at the Fonda in Hollywood this November.