Veckatimest, Grizzly Bear

Grizzly Bear made a name for themselves as the indie paradigm for creative vocals; credit due not just to the lead singer Edward Droste but also to the harmonic contributions made by the other three members. The band's third full-length album Veckatimest (out 5/26/09, Warp Records) sounds like they will be continuing their reign as vocal authorities in the scene, but their influence might not stop there. The new album tackles a wide range of musical styles, pushing indie rock to new heights. I mean, what other band solicits the help of an orchestra for their album, and does it in a way that complements their existing style?

1. Southern Point—jazzy feel: solid keys, percussion & guitar
2. Two Weeks—classic Grizz
   
3. All We Ask—delightful
4. Fine for Now—very Fleet Fox-y
5. Cheerleader—think de-saturated beach boys
6. Dory—really nice play between vocals & instrumental, psychedelic
7. Ready, Able—becomes something about 2 minutes in, really need those keys
8. About Face—springtime bike ride song, nice woodwinds
9. Hold Still
10. While You Wait for the Others—favorite track
11. I live With You—epic
12. Foreground

I adore the album, especially for spring. I think that my love will only cultivate with each hour I take listening to it, start to finish. Definitely owned up to the follow-to-Yellow-House pressure ; I dig it.

Rating: A-

We'll be playing some tracks off the album Thursday. Comment which one you'd like to hear!

[Read up on the album via Pitchfork's interview with Droste]