Really Well, the third album from Halifax band Mauno, is a foray into the subtle intricacies of creating an intimate rock sound. Roughly two years after their sophomore release, Tuning, Mauno continue to build within the same style that characterized their earlier work. Having first started as an indie-folk collaboration between guitarist Nick Everett and bassist Eliza Niemi, Mauno have continued to evolve their sound into more engaging blend of indie rock. Now performing as a four-piece, the folk influence is still present on Really Well; while the album focuses on a subdued and polished sound, tracks such as "Half It" and "20 Times" are noticeably more energetic and dynamic, adding solid pacing to the mix. Though at times the album can seem quite drawn out, Mauno still deliver a vibrant album. Really Well delves into refined sounds and harmonies that further anchor Mauno's distinct style. The layering of guitar and keys contributes to each track's cohesiveness, while some of the sparse instrumentation allows the songs to feel uncrowded and free. Really Well serves as a testament to Mauno's ability to work within the frames of space and sound, all while keeping their style simple.
