Khruangbin - The Universe Smiles Upon You ii - White Color Vinyl Record [Pre-Order]

Imagine going back ten years—what advice would you give your younger self? Khruangbin reflected on this as they celebrated the ten-year anniversary of their debut album, The Universe Smiles Upon You, which evolved from a cult favorite into a masterpiece.

Band member Laura Lee said, “If we could tell ourselves what was coming after that record, what would we celebrate?” Instead of dwelling on the past, they looked forward: “Let’s do it again.”

This inspired them to record The Universe Smiles Upon You ii from January 4-6, 2025, in the same barn where TUSUY was first made ten years earlier. The setting was familiar—dirt floor, cold, minimal soundproofing, all live recordings—but the music approach was fresh. Some songs were reimagined more than others, maintaining TUSUY’s energy while exploring new directions.

The result is a collection of ten tracks with a sense of space, calm, and creative freedom. The barn’s atmosphere adds intimacy—listen for birds on “August Twelve ii”—and the sounds of rattles and creaks. It’s a tapestry of subtle movements and delicate arrangements, revitalizing music that feels like reconnecting with an old friend—familiar yet new after ten years.