Bowerbirds - Upper Air

Bowerbirds, the trio from Raleigh in North Carolina release ‘Upper Air’. The follow up to their 2007 debut release ‘Hymns for a Dark Horse’. After a tour with The Mountain Goats, and being described as their “new favourite band in forever” by lead singer/songwriter John Darnielle in the process. Upper Air would have been eagerly anticipated, especially by such musicians amongst modern American Folk music. For those of you Indie lovers who appreciate lush harmonies with textured but stripped down instrumental production then there is no reason why you shouldn’t enjoy this album. Right from the off, album opener ‘House of Diamonds’ begins with Phil Moore’s soft vocals, piano and acoustic guitars before accordionist Beth Tacular joins in the chorus with her harmonic vocals to leave the listener with a clear sign of what’s to follow. Instrumentally Moore and Tacular can do no wrong where the guitars, accordion, piano and drums compliment each other well, especially in songs such as ‘Beneath your Tree‘, ‘Chimes’ and ‘Crooked Lust‘. The male/female harmonies add a dynamic approach to the vocals which is appealing to the audience. Songs like ‘Ghost Life’ has an anthemic feel to it with the chanting like sing-along chorus. A simplistic touch which can appeal to a wider demographic also. For those of you who enjoy meaningful lyrics with a good story and like them to stand out then
I can see ‘Upper Air’ losing its initial appeal after many listens. Once you become used to the overall sound of the album you begin to focus on the album lyrically. After a few plays, I do wonder whether the lyrics have any true meaning and can take a while to figure out, but perhaps this adds some mystery to the records concept. And for that, then you’ve got to give these guys some credit.