Spring Break
Playing it by ear: The Yellow Walrus
Melissa Cowan
Issue date: 11/2/09 Section: Culture
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Sunflowers is so perfect, I'm almost afraid to try to describe it. I feel like my words will detract from its brilliance.
It's definitely one you need to experience yourself.
The first two tracks are really upbeat and catchy without being poppy. The harmonies between Austen Malone and Jessica Cork (featured on a few songs) are seamless.
But one of my favorites from the album is the third track, "Talking to God." It's difficult to dissect each individual instrument because everything flows together so well. Every sound stands out at once.
Malone's lyrics are flawlessly descriptive, keeping metaphors simple and sweet: "It's hopeless to look at you/It's like my glasses in a dark room/Never knowing which board is loose."
Though, he could probably sing about anything with that voice - it's honestly one of the best I've heard.
It just so happens he's a talented lyricist, too.
"Dear Mr. Wormwood" is another great example of this (again, it's difficult to choose because there are so many of these moments): "Nicotine is addicting/But not as much as you/And alcohol could make me fall/But not as fast as you."
The album continues to get better.
There's an ideal balance of bright guitars, fast-paced rhythm (like another favorite, "The Fremont Bridge is Closed Again") and mellower songs. But I would not consider any slow.
Despite the occasional understated guitars and easygoing piano, Evan Stein (drums) rarely slows down, and Alex Chapman (bass) is constantly moving up and down the fret. It's never conventional or predictable, but all the pieces always fit together.
Even the most slow-paced song on the album, "Let the Sounds of the Stereo Play Out," doesn't stay that way for long. About a minute in, things pick up.
The album ends with "Kansas Sky," and these proud Kansas natives really know how to leave on a high note - plus leave you wanting more.
I've heard people compare The Yellow Walrus to Death Cab for Cutie, which is an understandable opinion from a first listen. But they definitely have their own sound and style if you really sit down and listen closely - which you should. It's completely genuine, personal and moving.
This album is great, and their next album is sure to be even greater.
A++
mcowan@unews.com
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