On its 2006 debut EP, “A Lesson In Crime,” Tokyo Police Club relied on its raw energy with little focus on song development. On the group’s newest release, “Elephant Shell,” it eschews the funny stuff in favor of a sound that veers from grimy to clean within the span of a verse.

Perhaps the band’s strongest element is its understanding of subtlety and restraint. Minimalist drummer Greg Alsop and singer/bassist Dave Monks keep a tight rhythm section for guitarist Josh Hook and keyboardist Graham Wright to pass hooks over.

Tracks such as “Nursery Academy” and the single “Tessellate” barely cross the two-minute mark, effectively bouncing over enough guitar mayhem, the soundtrack for a good head bop.

“Elephant Shell” offers a glimpse into a band that has significantly matured since its introduction to the scene. While its newest release does not amp up the length of songs, it certainly cleans them up enough to be more memorable.