Monday, May 16, 2011

I am tongue-tied and dizzy and I can't keep it to myself

What can I say about Fleet Foxes' sophomore effort that the real critics out there haven't already? I found it exhilarating to say the least. I've been anticipating this album ever since I gave their first a serious listen. Nearly three years later my wish has been granted. What I hoped for I won't divulge in lieu of boring the shit out of everyone, including myself, so let me just say this: a remarkable album. For those of us out there who divert ourselves away from piddly-tiddly shits like what we'll have for lunch today, this album represents the question in its truest state. Harmoniously, earthy, and genuine are too familiar verbs for such an album. Stand down Foo Fighters, Fleet Foxes have taken your letter and your place as far as the best of 2011 is concerned. Robin Pecknold (sp?) out did himself on the creation of this album; I know because I read about it. The title track itself represents the epitome of the album. What's my name/What's my station are just a couple of lyrical examples of what this album is all about. The question. Or questions, should I say? Who am I? Why am I? What will I? Trust me, listen and you will understand. The maturity of Robin's songwriting is prevalent and it has to be (he worked so fluently on it), I can see, after giving the album more than a couple of listens from start to finish, what the lead singer was aiming for. I read in Uncut magazine that after the supposed first completion of the album, Robin described the sound as "where we were, not where we want to be." Needless to say, the six members delivered. And they delivered a masterpiece. I suppose I'm being a little bias, but you'll have to forgive me, I'm on board with this New Folk genre and the Foxes have led the way. Despite the fact that I've grown into a city-boy, I can't help but to take in the nostalgic pleasure of hearing the earthy-ness that the Foxes provide. From start to finish, the album puts you on a wave of a question for nearly an hour and never lets up. Yeah, but does it answer? you may ask. Well, that depends on you of course. The maturity of the songwriting and the interchanging compositions certainly spoke to me, but then again I tend to think outside of the box. At nearly 30, I still can only guess as to who I will become. Fortunately for me, this album leads the way. Or at least plays a distinctive role. Admittedly the first listen didn't do a whole lot for me, but then againt the best albums never do. It takes a dedication to receive the kind of message that Robin and his mates stand to deliver and those of us out there; we know who we are, message received. I cannot wait to hear the next installment of this bands genius tenure, but I'm willing to patient. The three years I waited for Helplessness Blues was worth it. The title track alone fulfilled what I needed for this day and age and for that, I say 'thank you' Foxes. Take as long as you need. We'll be here.

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