Expectations are high for Mogwai’s forthcoming Sub Pop release, the awesomely titled, Hardcore Will Never Die, But You Will. Their past two releases — 2008’s The Hawk is Howling and last year’s live album, Special Moves — showcased a rejuvenated act, one ready to reclaim their title as the undisputed kings of instrumental rock. Yet, this second preview track, “Rano Pano,” even with its compelling guitar sound, the one which sounds as if each piece of gear in the studio is buzzing on the brink of failure, doesn’t elicit a much of a reaction. The melody is simple, streamlined, Mogwai by the books (Or, Mogwai circa Happy Songs for Happy People, for those familiar with the back catalog) and there isn’t much in the way of loud-soft-loud dynamics. As for innovation, there is a slight, electronic bubble and squeak lurking beneath the guitars, but it’s not enough to fundamentally alter the song. “Rano Pano” is, for better or blase, a track Mogwai have recorded ten times over their long career.

MP3: Mogwai – Rano Pano

Mogwai’s Hardcore Will Never Die, But You Will will be released February 15th via Sub Pop Records.