fun.’s deluxe release of Aim And Ignite is their stellar pop album topped with a new track and three re-worked old ones, a bright accompaniment for the coming crisp snows and reliable relief for treacherously freezing days also promised.

“Stitch Me Up” opens the deluxe section of the album. A typically upbeat tune, the summery, open-road command “you put the key in the car and drive” pairs with whirring guitars and the occasional horn. As anthemnic as it can be, “it’s how we do it” is one of those fun. lines you’ll catch yourself humming as you tap your foot at your desk this winter, anxious for a warmer climate.

The rest of the album tells us one thing: fun. happens slow too. Nate Ruess’s voice cascades higher with a passionate air, resonating and echoing in time with Will Noon’s drumkit. “Walking The Dog II” goes molasses, drawn; if its original is the excited proclamation to the word, this is the reflective self-reminder and plea. “Take Your Time (Acoustic)” treats to more harmonies and wider vocal range, but the key conversation happens between the calmly picked guitar and soft rounding melody of the piano.

And, just to cook this fan favorite in a third flavor, “Walking The Dog (RAC Mix).” It sounds like fun. may have prepared themselves to be background music of TV show’s  club scene. The song is engulfed by a sharper, tart melody and funky fader. It is exactly what pop-gone-semi-Euro should be. It may be slightly bizarre, but ultimately welcome, flare, especially because Ruess’s voice and familiar calls return full-scale for the song’s close.

“All The Pretty Girls (RAC Mix)” starts in a more startling way, fading in and out techno-style. Thankfully, that gives way to a souped-up version of the original. Similar added organ sounds and unpredictable harmonies spice the track up. The two mixes one after another can induce a slight headache but are interesting enough to push through, if only to indulge in fun.’s admirable unconventionality.

***.5/*****

*This review was composed by Emily Coch