This compilation is all over the place. With contributers ranging from post-rock phenoms Explosions in the Sky to indie rap stalwart Aesop Rock to noise rock pioneers Lightning Bolt, there doesn’t seem to be a common theme for this one as seen in past Believer comps—2005 saw a lo-fi trend where 2004 the bands were all even asked to cover songs of their contemporaries. But as Brandon Stosuy has explained, the magazine was inspired this year “to ditch the idea of ‘themes’ entirely,” and could only offer the issue date as a hint that these would be “songs to be enjoyed in the summer.” The most interesting aspect of this compilation is not merely the vast spectrum of notable artists who have decided to contribute, but rather the complete refocus of style among many of them.
One of those changes in style, the one everyone is talking about, is the new Sufjan song, “In the Words of the Governor,” which has taken his musical prowess from the orchestra hall to the garage. Sufjan’s made a real rock song, and it seems like he had fun doing it.
Another is Zach Condon (of Beirut), who went from Balkan folk-pop to a very subdued, beautifully layered electronica ballad, “Venice,” which almost puts the listener in a trance like state, even as he adds on horns, just to shake things up.
Grizzly Bear took the first track, “Easier,” from the 2006 hit album “Yellow House,” and gave us a very different take on it, which provide almost a whole new song in its own.
In terms of order, Stosuy and his gang did a very good job of presenting the cd in waves of style for the most part…though perhaps Aesop Rock’s next big thing, “The Next Big Thing,” may not have been the most natural follower to Swedish pop ensemble I’m From Barcelona’s fun-filled anthem “The Painter.”
Some songs seem a little too out of place for comfort, such as the 90’s emo-twinged “Please Visit Your National Parks” by Oxford Collapse, and the noise-heavy “Deceiver” by Lightning Bolt, unfittingly wedged in between the Zach Condon and Grizzly Bear tracks.
For a compilation comprised of rare and unreleased tracks, as well as favorites from artists of today, with even a nine-year-old simple but emotional folk song by Bill Fox (ex-The Mice), this album really steps out on a ledge. The listener must have an open mind as to the many styles displayed on this album, especially towards the artists who have completely forgone their usual style to try something unique. However, I see this as one of the most promising mixes of independent artists to come out in a long, long time.
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