“Watch the road now, watch the road now, watch the road now.”

It’s not just a lyric. It’s what you’ll be saying if you focus too closely on the mesmerizing music of Young Circles’ first album, Jungle Habits, when you’re driving.

The South Florida band that used to be Blond Fuzz disbanded and formed this marvelous group that has produced one of the most original sounds I’ve heard in years (If you want to read more about the band itself and their transition from local successes to an aspiring national act, read Stereo Subversion Editor Matt Conner’s outstanding interview with them here).

If you want to know why you should buy this album, stick with me a bit longer.

First, Jungle Habits is diverse. “Summer Noose” is a melancholy ballad with straightforward instrumentation and effectively sad vocals. “Love Hitch” is a progressive, powerful song with a variety of rhythms and styles combined into one tripped out experience. It’s addictive (my play count is in the double digits), and features the word of driving caution from the start of this review.

“Asthmatic” is a relaxed electronic tune with a captivating tonal transition about halfway through, while “2012” is an aggressive anthem with a synthetic rock sound and an unstoppable beat. “Jangala” is the track most reminiscent of being trapped in a jungle and is overflowing with unfamiliar, varied sounds. The title track itself, however, is a bit disappointing – high energy without much direction and a grating vocal track. Nearly two minutes into the quiet and jaunty “You. Me. Nothing” you’re assaulted by a barrage of distorted noise, which quickly vanishes.

Everything about this album is unusual and unexpected. It’s the perfect prescription of originality and passion for anyone suffering from cynicism or boredom with pop culture. Give Young Circles a chance to impress you — and don’t forget to watch the road.