Jagjaguwar
Rating: 7.8/10The Austin based Okkervil River has done it again with the recently released I Am Very Far. With a back catalog that includes indie treasures such as Black Sheep Boy and The Stage Names, this band consistently proves that they just don't release bad records. Frontman Will Sheff has one of the best voices in rock 'n roll, ranking right up there with the ambling tenor of Jim James and the refined baritone of Matt Berninger.
The beginning of this particular release is fairly jagged and disjointed, I'll admit. It does its best to immediately grab you by the shirt collar with the uptempo stomp of "The Valley" before sauntering into a throw-away of sorts and a Springsteen imitation. While these tracks are not bad by any means, things really get going for me at the album's mid-section. The churning balladry of "Lay Of The Last Survivor" displays Sheff's traditional sense of melody and ability to deliver a charming vocal. "White Shadow Waltz" is a definite highlight that ventures into the majestic sounds of touring companions, Arcade Fire. It's a regal sounding tune, complete with plodding guitar lines, spastic percussion, and orchestral flourishes. Another goosebump worthy moment occurs a few moments later on the quietly beautiful "Hanging From A Hit," which will go on to rival some of the most dramatic moments from past Okkervil River collections. As the album's pinnacle slips a little further into the rear view, you will still be engaged and enthralled as you drift towards the floating finale.
Where this album will rank amongst other offerings from this band is hard to predict. The aforementioned Black Sheep Boy (and appendix) and The Stage Names are some of the most frequently revisited records in my entire collection. While there may not be any individual songs that could go on to top "Singer, Songwriter" or "Lost Coastlines," I would proclaim that Far is more consistent from front to back than The Stand In's. As any fan of OR will tell you, that's really high praise. This band can do no wrong.
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