The terms “lo-fi” and “DIY” aren’t usually associated with dense layers of samples, drum loops, multiple-part harmonies and music so complex that it requires five multi-instrumentalists to play it live when it was recorded by only two.

Yet the California duo Rob Crow and Armistead Burwell Smith IV have managed to apply these aesthetics to their brand of ethereal, atmospherically mellow indie-pop.

After a primarily acoustic debut in 1999 and tinkering further with electronics in 2001, Pinback again retreated to Crow’s bedroom to piece together “Summer In Abaddon” (yes, his bedroom).

The band’s third LP is its most complete and gratifying to date.

By embracing catchy, multiple-guitar hooks and discovering a vocal confidence missing on prior releases, Pinback has provided an entire album on par with earlier songs like “Tripoli,” “Concrete Seconds” and “Penelope.”

The songs are full of swirling experimentation and the subtleties seem to never be fully revealed. The dense, borderline-overwhelming composition is nothing short of ear-opening, as each listen gives a bit more than the last.

And what better way to keep us needing more than to give something new each time around.