With the voice of a wounded angel, Jannis Noya Makrigiannis leads his Choir of Young Believers through austere yet inviting soundscapes on Rhine Gold. The Danish group's sophomore album is a work of cool surface luster and warm interior feelings, defined by Makrigiannis’ chaste vocal tones and free-floating lyrical angst. Rhine Gold draws on a number of musical wellsprings for inspiration, including such British ‘80s icons as Depeche Mode, New Order, and The Smiths. Echoes of vintage krautrock ripple through the sprawling “Paralyze,” while the insinuating slink of “Sedated” taps into blue-eyed soul. Further distinguishing the band’s music are stately orchestral touches on tracks like “Have I Ever Truly Been Here” and “Nye Nummer Et.” Makrigiannis commands the spotlight with his exceptional range and evocative timbre, infusing “Patricia’s Thirst,” “Paint New Horrors," and similar tunes with elegant heartache. If there’s a standout track here, it’s “The Wind Is Blowing Needles,” an exquisite pop aria combining an electronica sheen with deftly interwoven choral vocals.