Did you ever have some weird realization that just kind of pops into your head, uninvited, that makes you wonder what other bizarre things are rolling around in your head? I just had one of those the other day. Here goes: I never have seen a pelican in real life. That kind of made me sad because I’ve been to beaches plenty of times, and you’d think I would have run into one at some point. But no. We’ve yet to cross paths.

I guess that thought wasn’t entirely random because it came to me when I was pulling my thoughts together on “Ataraxia/Taraxis,” the new EP from Chicago-based post-metal institution Pelican. I also have yet to see the band live, and it would be really strange that if I saw both these fellows and that damn bird on the same day. Not sure where I’d go from there. But enough about the bird and more about this new four-track outing from a band that’s been silent since releasing 2009’s “What We All Come to Need.” That album was noteworthy not only because it marked another milestone of progression for the band, but also because it was the first release for their new label home Southern Lord (they had spent years with Hydra Head). But then they seemed to fade into the distance.

Luckily for us listeners, that break in the action is over with this new offering, a really neat, appetizer-like effort that sort of gives you a glimpse into all the things this band does really well. All four tracks have their own identities and stand apart from the other songs, but as a whole, they make quite the cohesive unit. Each cut is like a new chapter, with its own story tell and arc to stretch into the next piece. It also is one of the most pleasing, exhilarating Pelican releases in their entire catalog, and I find myself listening to this thing over and over again. It helps when I’m battling my way to work, watching assholes clog the passing lane as I choke back my rage. It evens me out nicely. I’ve also indulged quite a bit when tearing through piles of proofreading work. It keeps my brain working hard.

Another new element for the band is that, while Chicago is their recognized center point, the dudes live in separate cites, which has to change the songwriting dynamic. Yet the Pelican members — guitarists Trevor de Brauw and Laurent Schroeder-Lebec, bassist Bryan Herweg, drummer Larry Herweg — manage to make this arrangement work wonderfully. The music sounds re-invigorated (not that they ever grew stale or anything), and it seems like the band has a new sense of purpose and a fire re-kindled in their bellies (um, or their throats).

The EP kicks off with “Ataraxia,” as guitars swoop in unassumingly, almost sounding like a plane you can hear approaching in the distance. But as that craft gets closer to you, the intensity and power becomes more obvious and prevalent. That takes us into “Lathe Biosas,” one of the band’s burlier, thornier songs in some time, with rugged guitar lines and a nice rhythm section crashing and bashing to set a pulverizing foundation. “Parasite Colony” is a bit more stoner-doom in its complexion, as the guitar work sounds sleepy (though not lazy) and chilled out, bringing you back down emotionally for the closer “Taraxis.” That song plays more with acoustics, shakers and serenity, though it does have its moments where it threatens to spill over and mangle you. It’s a perfect way to cap off your emotions and remind you why you fell in love with this band in the first place. It’s also a nice re-entry point if you’ve been away from Pelican for a while.

Pelican already are one of post-metal’s and instrumental rock’s best, most noteworthy bands, and each time out, they give us something entirely different to ponder. As a longtime fan of the band, I’m thrilled just to have the band back with new music, and it’s a plus that their new sounds are so rich and rewarding. Now if only I can get into a room with these guys and experience their power live. Well, that and toss fish to a same-named bird on a pier, a winged friend that’s alluded me my entire life.

For more on the band, go here: http://www.facebook.com/pelicansong

To buy the album, go here: http://www.southernlord.com/store.php?dept=MCH

For more on the label, go here: http://www.southernlord.com/