Lord Huron : "the Cosmic Selector Vol. 1 "

This is the 5th album from this melancholy folk rock band, which employs a reflective atmosphere in their sound that feels honest in its soul-baring introspection. "Bag of Bones" highlights the fact that they are playing a more modern take on Americana, as the vocals gain more confidence in their narrative thanks to the shuffling groove provided by the drums that keep the song moving as country influence begins to slide in. Their pot smoking has now been referenced in two songs, so pull out the bong for this album. 

"Nothing I Need" is not far removed from what Jason Isbell does, which, considering Isbell stripped things down to just a guitar for his last album, scratches that itch. I prefer the darker, more introspective moments, and don't want things to get too happy. Thankfully, the momentum shifts for " Is There Anybody Out There?".  Lyrically, it makes me think of how I feel when I am depressed. It might be the album's best song. The pace picks up to flirt with an accessible style of post-punk not unlike what the National does for " Who Laughs Last," which Kristen Stewart lends her voice to.

"The Comedian" finds the guitar taking a more jazzy nuance. It has a graceful flow that highlights the wide range of dynamics this album employs. "Watch Me Go" highlights the fact that Tom Petty is a part of this band's musical DNA of influences. But it is not the big radio hit side of Petty that works better for my ears. Kazu from Blonde Redhead shows up for "Fire Eternal," which makes things sound more like Blonde Redhead. The ballad "It All Comes Back" took a second listen for it to catch me. It has a dreamier waltz. "Used to Know' moves with more purpose but is still a mellow indie rock shuffle. 

"Digging Up the Past" finds expansive, dreamier guitar tones painting the background with stunning reverb. His plaintive voice continues to fall in the right places, as he is not a powerhouse of a singer with a wide range, but serves the song with humility. There is more of a country flavor returning here. By the time the album ends with "Life is Strange," it feels more like a summary of what we have already heard from this album. I will give this album a 9.5, and see how it grows on me. If you want some country-tinged indie-folk that moves like rock music, light up a bowl and give this a spin. 

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