Building on his successful Meta album in 2007, Assemblage 23 clearly knew where he was headed for his newest album, Compass. The 2009 album shows a more polished and mature sound. Solid beats, interesting melodies, and meaningful lyrics give the album a dynamic clarity. From the intensive opening track, "Smoke," to the danceable "Impermanence" through the heart-wrenching closing track, "The Cruelest Year," Compass takes Assemblage 23 to the next level with each unforgettable song.