Twin Shadow
(Terrible Records)
Haunting, yet beautiful, may be the best way to describe Twin Shadow’s debut release. The 11-track LP from George Lewis Jr. details a tumultuous love affair in almost eerie tones, à la The xx. Introducing a fiery passion in “Shooting Holes” and citing unrequited love in “Castles in the Snow”, every track induces strong emotion in the listener. The second half appeals more to the Urban Outfitters demographic, introducing a dancier vibe highlighted by the borderline 80’s pop track “For Now”. Overall, this album is perfect for easy listening and paper writing or for a more upbeat event with friends.
–Corinne Jones
“The King Is Dead”
(Rough Trade/Capitol)
Long before Mumford & Sons, there were The Decemberists. The lords of indie folk are back with this stunning reversal of their 2009 folk-metal triumph, “The Hazards of Love”. Every facet of that record has been turned on its head here, as Colin Meloy appears to have traded his fuzz pedal for a harmonica and shelved the overarching fantasy narratives that dominated his band’s first two major-label releases. Morrissey, early Neil Young, and R.E.M. are all over this tight, ten-song set – the latter band literally, as guitarist Peter Buck contributes on three tracks. Standouts: “Don’t Carry It All”, “Down by the Water”, “Rox in the Box.”
–Jared Brenner