CASTAWAYS AND CUTOUTS

If PA statistics are accurate (and I guess they are), prog folfk is only ranked as number ten in my preferred musical genre available for review. Almost ninety reviews for this genre so far. So, I'm neither a huge fan nor a specialist at all.

Still, I can recognize when a band is moving or not. And when paying some attention to The Decemberists, I just can tell you that something special is taking place while listening to their debut album.

Their sound doesn't feature lot of weird instruments (except the theremin), just the classic rock music ones. You know: bass, drums, guitar and piano (OK, there is some accordion as well...).

What is making the diference is the FEELING the band is conveying, this wonderful musical tranquility combined with good vocal harmonies. When you listen to this album that's what comes immediately to mind: a great combination of crafted songs with emotions.

The work might sound easy listening, but do pay attention: crafted compositions and excellent interpretation is what you'll get. Even if most songs are on quiet mood, most have such a so special tint. The most elaborate and my fave one being Odalisque which features a very good organ work.

Not all tracks are thrilling, like the acoustic and mellowish Cocoon, but Castaways And Cutouts is a real breath of fresh air. The album is maybe lacking of deeper true folk roots to get more aknowledgment from eminent reviewers, but it is quite an enjoyable record. Recommended, and not only to (prog) folk enthusiasts.

This band deserves much more exposure and reviews (only one commented review before mine for this album). Wake up guys! It's The Decemberists time. To be fully honest (as usual), I would just say that the second part of the album, after the excellent Odalisque is shy in comparison with the superb start which is pure melody from Leslie Anne Levine to July July.

Castaways And Cutouts is definetely an album that you should listen to. Due to a weaker second part (even if The Legionnaire's Lament is really cool), I would rate this effort with seven out of ten. Just shy of the four stars rating.