Their 1996 debut record, Less is More, was selected as one of Australia's greatest albums in a comprehensive poll by The Age newspaper in June.

But despite the critical acclaim, the band has never had a commercial breakthrough single to catapult them onto a wider stage.

Which is a mystery, because there is a treasure trove of potential hits contained on their self-titled fifth studio LP, released after a four-year recording hiatus.

For a trio heavily influenced by 1960s and 1970s classicist pop - Big Star and Small Faces are cited as favourites - Even possesses the strong song craft and a sharp ear for melody to comfortably nestle among their luminaries.

Over more than a decade together, they have also exhibited a Bowie-like swagger and Rolling Stones' groove to adds another layer to their timeless quality.

The album opens with first single I Am The Light, which immediately lays out Even's guitar pop/classic rock template.

They mix things up with Superstition Blues, a bar-room blues number that ends with a howling harmonica.

The band further change pace with The Fool Who Made You Sad, a slow-burning country lament dominated by a pedal steel guitar.

But the song drags without any substantial peaks, making it the album's one true mis-step.

Even quickly regains its mojo on the stomping Sister Rock, which is sure to become a live favorite.

More solid than spectacular, Even's self-titled effort is set to consolidate rather than expand Even's standing in the Oz music scene.

Even are playing Warrnambool later this month.