The Walkmen have just released a new album called Heaven. It threw me for a loop. They have, as all bands do, changed their sound. They use much less of Hamilton's voice. It is a much tighter and more polished sound than their previous records. That doesn't mean it's no good. It's different... especially for them! Someone starting here would probably find it hard to get into the older records. I was not impressed with the first listen. Just skip song one! But, each time I hear it it seems to make a bit more sense. It is a Fat Possum Records release.
The single, also called Heaven, struck me instantly! It sort of sounded like their previous record, Lisbon. While Lisbon had plenty of the qualities of their early recordings, it signaled the changes they have made on Heaven. Heaven is not a disappointment, it just may take longtime fans a while longer to understand. (I need Hamilton's wail!)
My favorites are "Line By Line", "Song for Leigh" "The Love You Love" and "Heaven", but of course you have to listen to the whole album to get the whole picture! Happy listening!
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