Despite having 400 songs under his belt, this wildly prolific US songwriter is largely unknown. But this could soon change. Musically, this is a largely folksy, man-and-his-guitar affair, warm but stylistically stagnant bar the odd flourish of piano, bras
Despite having 400 songs under his belt, this wildly prolific US songwriter is largely unknown. But this could soon change.
Musically, this is a largely folksy, man-and-his-guitar affair, warm but stylistically stagnant bar the odd flourish of piano, brass and vibraphone.
But John Darnielle imbues the melodies with his overtly sad poetics - and a dash of optimism - lifting the songs: "The first time I made coffee for myself I made too much of it/But I drank it all just 'cause you hate it when I let things go to waste," he sings on Woke Up New in his expressive trademark high sigh.
Beautifully moving, and well worth a try.
3/5
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