In taking its name from a historical 18th century French fortress which became an integral part of the French Revolution, the alt-rock band “Bastille” introduces new and refreshing styles in their album “Bad Blood,” promising to liven the international music scene.

Formed in London in 2010, the four-man band composed four singles, including the hit “Pompeii,” culminating in its debut release of “Bad Blood” in the United Kingdom in March. While many of the songs and the album as a whole were critically-acclaimed and topped charts, it took six months for the band to cross the pond.

“Bad Blood” features 15 distinct yet impressionable songs. From “Overjoyed” to “Icarus” listeners can hear the instrumental and tonal swings between and within songs. Each musical contribution is unique, and although the vocal parts of the lead singer, Dan Smith, may seem similar in areas, the inflection and emotion is clearly audible in each song. Furthermore, a wide range of instruments and sound-effects are utilized throughout the album, ranging from synthesizers, which gave songs a techno or upbeat mood, to percussion, grounding the songs to classical influence.

The album is a must-listen for anyone looking to expand their music interests and try something new. For existing fans of the band, an extended version of the album, “All This Bad Blood,” featuring additional songs, will be released later this month.