Shearwater’s back!
Other than a single song from 2008’s “Rook” somehow finding its way into my music library I haven’t listened to Shearwater, so I can’t speak as to how this album compares to what they’ve done and where they’re trying to go. But I can unequivocally say that these are some beautiful songs. Jonathon Meiburg’s vocals are something all to their own, most of the time being a falsetto whisper that carry a tremendous amount emotion. This is in part due to the excellent lyrics which all share animal themes and man’s place in nature, but of course can be read into heavily. The vocals interweave with melodies in interesting and complex ways and the percussion pushes the whole package forward courtesy of Thor Harris, it only makes sense for a guy named Thor to strike out beats with a mighty hammer. Track 1 is the highlight.
Reviewed by: Brendan Higginbottom on February 12th, 2012
RIYL: Okkervil River, Wye Oak
Recommended Tracks: 1, 3, 4, 10 and 11
FCC Warning: None
Label: Sub Pop
Release Date: February 14th, 2012