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EDIT INFOAndrew Bird - Noble Beast
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Album Details
- Artist: Andrew Bird
- Album: Noble Beast
- Label: Fat Possum
- Year of Release: 2009
- ME Rating:
- Reviewed by: tosnob on 2009-02-10
RecommendOver the course of four full length studio albums Chicago-based multi-instrumentalist Andrew Bird has proven at least one thing: he is one hell of a capable musician. On his fifth studio album Noble Beast (out Jan. 20th), Bird does nothing to change that fact.
Moving deftly from violin to keyboard effects and more, Bird is adept at weaving sonic tapestries complex enough for those looking for musicality while being accessible enough for the pop rock fan.
Much of the impact of Bird's songs stems from the atmosphere he creates. "Tenuousness" is based on just that. The song feels as though Bird is tenuously holding back a flood of sound. That flood comes on the very next track as "Nomenclature" breaks down into a fury of guitar clang. Both songs are mirrored later on "Anonanimal", which has a lilting ebb and flow.
Bird proves to be a adept at including just enough elements of music to make the listener feel they are in a completely different genre, while staying on the familiar path he has build. On "Effigy" Bird come across as a cross between a medieval troubadour and jug and washboard playing hillbilly. Several tracks, including "Masterswarm" and "Not a Robot, But a Ghost" incorporate a Spanish mamba feel to the violin.
"Fitz and Dizzyspells" is likely the most straightforward song on the album. It's whistling and jangle demonstrate that Bird can pen a simple pop rock gem too.
You would be hard pressed to find an artist as musically proficient as Andrew Bird on Noble Beast.
Noble Beast has a companion instrumental EP Useless Creature.
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Log In or Register to Rate Albumson 2011-07-19 Chavey Said:
An absolute essential for surviving the cabin fever that unfailingly consumes winter. Bird is so far inside his own head in this album that it drags you into your own. Its enough to distract even the most stressed out of students. Bring out the Bose, turn on the Bird and forget its February. The friendly combination of violin, guitar and whimsical vocals will be your blanket for the cold.
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