For a long time, Okkervil River were overlooked, and now, after 6 albums, they're easy to take for granted. Sometimes referred to in the pejorative as literary-rock, Okkervil River encapsulate what is best about rock music that can be classified as literate. Songwriter Will Sheff is a lyricist whose words tilt toward the poetic side, but they're never cloying. Maybe that's because as much as Sheff likes words, he also likes music, and is as astute at making allusions with his music as he is with his words.
I am Very Far does not have the same type of loose narrative that permeated previous releases. Instead, it is a collection of songs that may prove to be some of the best they've ever recorded.
Recommended If You Like:
Elliott Smith, R.E.M., Neko Case, Magnolia Electric Co., bands with a newfound energy.
Looks Like:
a dog-eared copy of The Grapes of Wrath.
Feels Like:
waking up.
Smells Like:
freshly ground coffee.
Listen to When:
it's too hot outside, and you just want to sit in the AC and read.
Vinyl the Cat says:
Fetch me my reading glasses and paper!
Okkervil River - Rider
Okkervil River - White Shadow Waltz |
