Big Thief - “Dragon New Warm Mountain I Believe in You”
The New York-based indie folk group releases its 5th album. After dropping 2 critically-acclaimed albums in 2019, Big Thief became a household name within the indie scene. With organic-sounding instrumentation, clever songwriting and frontwoman Adrianne Lenker unusual singing style, the band has developed a pretty refined sound. Now, with "Dragon New Warm Mountain I Believe in You", a 20-track double album, the band embraces the twangy sound of country music while also exploring some other sonic directions. It’s Big Thief just putting out ideas, unfiltered. It results in some cozy-sounding campfire jams, including acoustic guitars, violins and harmonizing vocals. But, songs like "Time Escaping" and "Blurred View" go in a more artsy and experimental direction. There are even some hints towards dream pop/shoegaze on "Flower of Blood". With 80 minutes of material, things may not always sound as cohesive or memorable. Lenker introduces topics like nature and intimacy, but there isn’t a clear lyrical theme on this record. And as mentioned previously, the vocals can be a bit inaccessible to some. However, the clear musical chemistry between members and diverse songwriting make the album still a well-crafted effort.
Best track: “Simulation Swarm”
Rating: 7,5
Released: February 11, 2022
4AD
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Black Country, New Road - “Ants From Up There”
The British band releases their second album. Last year, Black Country, New Road brought us their highly anticipated debut record. An interesting and artsy blend of abstract post-punk, building post-rock and some exotic Klezmer music. With "Ants From Up There", the band’s sound has become more cohesive and distinctive. The post-rock influences are still there, but the band also incorporates elements of baroque music and jazz, which leaves a bigger spotlight for the violin, saxophone and piano. It results in a colorful, theatrical and emotional sound. Compared to the band’s debut, most songs contain a more structured verse-chorus approach, leaving room for more accessible moments. Still, all songs take captivating and adventurous turns, keeping it far from generic. And of course, there are singer Isaac Wood’s one of a kind vocals and lyrics. His poetic wordplay takes you into his troubled mind, plagued by anxiety, heartbreak and melancholia. With beautifully crafted metaphors like the retired Concorde airplane resembling a failed one-sided relationship. It’s all brought in his low and shaky vocal delivery. Unfortunately, it has taken its toll on Wood’s involvement with the band, as he left the Black Country, New Road to get better. However, with well-crafted arrangements, luscious instrumentation and honest songwriting, "Ants From Up There" sees Wood leaving on an artic high.
Best track: “The Place Where He Inserted the Blade”
Rating: 9
Released: February 4, 2022
Ninja Tune
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