With their self-titled debut album these Seattle boys have become the incumbent band of modern America.
Fleet Foxes has received critical acclaim on both sides of the Atlantic since its release, acquiring Album of the Year billing with Mojo and Pitchfork. Yes it’s been out since June of last year but who gives a toss? Let’s celebrate it anyway.
Robin Pecknold’s crystal vocals intertwine seamlessly with the bands musicianship to create a beautiful, haunting listening experience.
Songs like ‘Tiger Mountain Peasant Song’ whisk you away to the dust lands of America with only a star filled sky as your duvet.
Whilst some of the production is quite ‘big’, it’s done so in a manner that retains the comfortable nature of the band’s songs. The album never gets lost in the epic grandeur Arcade Fire sometimes fall victim to.
The single ‘White Winter Hymnal’ is sure to please the masses with its playful rhythm evoking soft smiles all round.
Whilst most the album saunters along at a calm pace; songs like ‘Ragged Wood’ inject some swiftness into the whole affair, with Josh Tillman’s drums comfortably imbedded in the track. The wonderfully named Skyler Skjelset’s guitars provide the perfect chaperone to it all.
‘Your Protector’ is a gallivanting, frontier laced offering. Pecknold’s strong lyrics cause the listener to sit up and take notice as he sings “You run with devil.” Definitely a high point.
The album is perfect easy listening. On the closing track ‘Oliver James’, Robin Pecknold’s lyrics will leave a lasting print on your consciousness, and could very well be the soundtrack to your slumber for the foreseeable future.
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