Saturday 1 August 2009

Monsters Of Folk


In my quest for modern folk classics I've come across some great bands. There's something about the organic, country feel of modern folk that separates itself from other music genres. It's honesty and simplicity is the essence of its beauty - and whether it's stripped down acoustic pluckings or the rusty twang of a Fender it generally retains its authenticity.

Now expectations are high for the group in this feature. The aptly named Monsters Of Folk consists of Jim James of My Morning Jacket, M. Ward - an American singer-songwriter, Producer Mike Mogis and Bright Eyes unpredictable lonely genius Conor Oberst. A tall order here. With a band comprised of these talented young buggers great things are expected.

Where Oberst has drawn comparisons to a modern day Dylan in the past we have to sit up and take notice. He's one of the best song writers in the world at this point, he's an adaptable young whipper-snapper as he proved with the Mystic Valley band, and now, in this Crosby, Stills and Nash-like outfit his talent is scouring new shores.

'Say Please' is a pre-released track from their forthcoming debut. It's got the dreary wail of Obersts scouring vocals and it's got a more-country-rock-than-thou electric lick throughout, making it a sturdy foundation for them to certainly build on. I'm guessing that this is far from everything the group have to offer, because although it's a wonderful track, the talent that congeals amongst this outfit is top-notch, a real gang of visionairys and with this in mind, lets all wait for the album due out September.

Download say please - Monsters Of Folk

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