For those of you who have already listened to their first full-lenght album, you know what FF are capable of. The Seattle-based group (yes, they signed with Sub Pop) described their music as “baroque harmonic pop jams”. Sounds pretty legit to me.
Songwriter Robin Pecknold was said to have “talent coming out of his ass”, according to producer Phil Ek. “Sun Giant”, the opening track demonstrates the musical and lyrical talent of Fleet Foxes, being for the most part a cappella, followed by an absolutely beautiful mandolin solo.
But the party has just started folks. “Drops in the River” follows immediatly, establishing the Foxes’ atmosphere: peaceful, joyful and euphoric. Heavily influenced by Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, this song might be a wise choice for newly introduced fellas.
What’s surprising about Fleet Foxes is that they sound mature and experienced, while they’ve been around for less than 4 years. For a band that has to deal with early success and fame, they’re doing a great job.
“English House” is a pure gem, with some of the most authentic vocal harmonies one has heard in ages. Faithful to the band’s trademark sound, proficient use of percussions and momentary a cappella verses have you enlightened and pleasantly surprised by this rather unusual, or to the least, distinguished sound.
The single “Mykonos” ensues with Pecknold’s amazing voice, followed by hypnotizing harmonies in what could be considered a two-part song. “Innocent Song” is a song that screams in despair, the lyrics probably referencing to someone being abandoned, his friends’ bodies hanging behind him (an easy hint to Pecknold’s mordbid obsessiveness, which adds quite a beauty to its music, surprisingly).
The only downside to Fleet Foxes is that they leave you wanting for more. A LOT more.
Fleet Foxes
Rating: 9.0
Hail hail the lucky ones... 