It’s not clear whether Hercules & Love Affair’s line up constitutes a project, collaboration, collective, or is simply the output of Andy Butler’s creations. What is clear is that the band knows how to pull out the big guns. On their 2008 self-titled debut they brandished the killer tune ‘Blind’ in one hand, and with the other delivered a knockout blow in the form of Antony Hegarty. It’s a triumphant pounce on all that is good and right about the club scene, and it’s earned Hercules & Love Affair an audience that scopes the globe.

Two years have passed, and to some musicians matching such an impressive entrance might have been a daunting prospect. Not for Butler and his ever evolving group – Hercules & Love Affair have outdone themselves with second album Blue Songs.

Kele Okereke is arguably the most famous face to contribute to the album: the Bloc Party front man lends his vocals to ‘Step Up’, and in doing so cements his career move to disco-friendly music. Elsewhere, the iconic Mark Pistel of Meat Beat Manifesto has co-produced some of the tracks, and band staple Kim Ann Foxman returns to cast her unfaltering hand over the proceedings. However, it’s Chicago’s Shaun Wright and Berlin’s Aerea Negrot who give Blue Songs its resonating sense of community. Their involvement is a reminder that you don’t have to be a high-earner to make one hell of a record.

Despite having the opportunity to do so, Hercules & Love Affair don’t rest on their laurels. They haven’t gained this level of achievement by networking; they’re capable of writing intricate, profound and even radical songs, too. Blue Songs reaches out to the depths of house music and simultaneously reels in a variety of genres. It literally doesn’t miss a beat. Opener ‘Painted Eyes’ has the hollow pace of the night twisted around its foundations, ‘Blue Boy’ nods a head to acoustic and folds a blanket around tired shoulders, and ‘It’s Alright’ opens its arms to the future of sound. Just as there’s a purpose for every song on the album, every song is interchangeable. Sombre, uplifting, comforting and strengthening – this album can adapt to whatever mood necessary.

Piecing together so much in one album is no easy trick, but Hercules & Love Affair do it effortlessly. This is far more than a coming together of celebrated artists – Blue Songs represents pastures both old and new. It’s a fine demonstration of talent, and an even better depiction of skill.