(4AD)
Themes of real life experiences, friendship, anger, regret and hope are captured and interwoven throughout the creative songs on The Mountain Goats' latest release, . These emotions are revealed to the listener as the band artistically constructs lyrics and instrumental combinations.
The tracks on the album are based on people John used to know. Most of them are probably dead or in jail by now. Whether either case is true, John Darnielle, guitarist and vocalist, is able to use his voice and instruments to tell a story and offer hope. Listeners feel enlightened after hearing the soft acoustic instruments and promising lyrics.
The Mountain Goats match stimulating melodies with storybook lyrics, spoken, rather than sung, by Darnielle.
The first track, \Slow West Vultures,"" starts with Spanish guitar immediately followed by uplifting violins and a high-pitched, peaceful resonance in the background. Darnielle exclaims, ""We are sleek and beautiful / We are cursed / Ready for the future / Ready for the world about to come,"" characteristic of the different moods and themes apparent in the album. The beautifully constructed melody complements the lyrics and allows listeners to believe everything will work out in the end.??
Darnielle's unique storytelling ability coupled with peaceful, spring-like melodies continues in ""Linda Blair was Born Innocent."" The song starts with violins plucking in a minor key establishing a somber mood. During the chorus, however, the violins take over and change the tone from somber to encouraging, offering listeners a sense of hope.
In ""The Young Thousands"" Darnielle sings, ""There are brighter things than diamonds / Coming down the line,"" reassuring listeners that hope and a bright future will come regardless of the past. The intense guitar strumming promotes apprehensiveness, but the slow, tranquil piano balances the structure providing ease for listeners.
The same tranquil piano reverberates in ""Cotton,"" and Darnielle dedicates the song to a variety of people, animals and other possessions. The soft guitar and piano accompaniment add inspiration to the lyrics, ""Let them all go."" The serene instruments let people move on and let go of the past.??
With distinctive instrumentation, melodic construction and words, provides hope and inspiration. These feelings allow the band and listeners to easily let go of the past and seek new beginnings in the future.'?
