If you like your noise rock loud, abrasive and rhythmically driven, then American Motors are a band you need to hear. They return with their second album, Functional Music, released on 6 November via Expert Work.

“obvious” opens proceedings with all the swagger of Shellac, setting the tone for what follows. “one chord” is hypnotic and driving, with a vocal delivery perfectly suited to the track’s mood. There’s a nod to surf rock in the guitar solos, but the rhythm section is what really holds it all together is a gloriously deep, heavy bass tone as it locks in with the drums.

“no horses” chugs along, making it almost impossible not to nod along to the discordant interplay between the bass and Dustin’s guitar. “margaritaville Pt. 2” takes a more subtle approach, gently drawing you in with its hypnotic, almost trance-like atmosphere. Subtle slide guitars and pulsing rhythms unfold over seven minutes, building into a dense wall of noise and storytelling. It’s one of my favourite moments on the record.

Before “marlboro miles” lets loose with its dissonant guitars, “tragedy” offers another highlight. Its sentiments about sleeping on floors ring particularly true, while shifting guitars and basslines steadily build the tension. However, it’s the band’s ability to weave compelling stories into their songs that really makes this album so enjoyable.

Everything feels carefully considered, particularly in the way the record has been put together tonally. Functional Music is a rewarding listen from beginning to end, especially if you enjoy the bass-heavy, drum-driven intensity that sits at the heart of some of the best noise rock.