The Almost the Same EP from Clearlake finds the English band tweaking its sonic pop goodness. Like their 2001 studio effort, Lido, Clearlake craft a delightful indie pop sound polished with a Brit-pop gloss; however, Almost the Same gets heavy for their most brilliant listen yet. Clearlake are emotionally romantic and overly sensitive like the Smiths, but the new wave-like ambience behind Almost the Same keeps such things briefly hidden. From the warm-hearted title track to the dreamy, psychedelic-tinged "Winterlight," Clearlake impress an evocative musical disposition. "Something to Look Forward To" is equally enchanting with its chiming guitar work, and the luminous design of "Don't Let the Cold In" captures Clearlake going for the most tangible soundscape. Those who cherish the dalliance of Doves' Last Broadcast or indulge in the simplicity of Trash Can Sinatras will be wooed by this divine release.