The Decemberists

Kicking off with a blast of harmonica, the Decemberists reveal their new intent right away. A retreat from the adventurousness of 2009's Hazards of Love, their sixth effort sees the Oregon collective enjoying the comforts of country-rock. With its chiming guitars, pedal steel and mandolins, it's reminiscent of the Byrds and REM, whose Peter Buck guests here (as does Gillian Welch). Lovely to fall asleep to. Which is a compliment, not a complaint.


The Decemberists
The King is Dead
(Rough Trade)
4/5