Like Girls and St. Vincent, Megafaun are a band that have really made a name for themselves very quickly (all these bands just releasing their third studio record). Most impressively, they have come to popular acclaim in the shadow of a former band member's grand success: Justin Vernon (Bon Iver). Vernon has not forgotten his roots however, performing guitar on a few songs on this self-titled album. On first listen, the newest Megafaun album will strike you as the best Grateful Dead album never released. "Real Slow" is a beautiful tribute to Garcia-esque guitar licks and sweeping harmonies. However, the album goes on a few different paths during its 54 minute runtime. This a record of fantastic experimentation, which is certainly something I suggest you see and hear live. Nevertheless, while the cool sounds and guitar distortions that line the outer wall of this record really make this a solid, cohesive album, what really sticks out to me are the "simple" songs. Tracks like "Real Slow," "Get Right," and "Second Friend" are all my favorite cuts because they are a return to true psych-folk, paying homage to bands like The Byrds, Grateful Dead, and a little bit of Crosby, Stills & Nash. This is a record that I think many people will enjoy a great deal on two levels: those of you who love late 60's, early 70's psych-folk will certainly love this, and also for those of you who love great sonic music. I highly suggest you get Megafaun a listen.
Megafaun -- "Get Right"
Megafaun -- "Second Friend"
Megafaun -- "Real Slow"
No comments:
Post a Comment