One might think Blitzen Trapper is one of those bands you would have never heard of if it weren’t for Myspace. However, NPR recently named Furr one of the top 25 albums of 2008 and I believe that is a well-deserved label.
Tyler and I stumbled upon Blitzen Trapper while doing research for Erin and JJ’s wedding. ITunes Genius, a new-ish feature to the program, was recently described as having the nerdy music friend at the record store telling you what to buy. I’d like to give Erin and JJ credit as being the brains behind this download. When we researched some of their favorite artists, such as Andrew Bird, Mirah, and The Good Life, we discovered Blitzen Trapper.
This album is definitely one you will listen to more than 20 times, and that’s taking it pretty far in my catalogue. It has an upbeat vibe with mellow undertones. I liken this contemporary band’s twist to classic favorites such as the Turtles or the Doobie Brothers.
This album begins with an upbeat, slacker feel and progresses to a slower, more delicate style. Maybe the perfect time to listen to this album is on a train ride home after a good day with friends or a road trip. This album deserves a full listen each time you put it in.
Every song captivates you in some aspect, whether it is the simple, yet thoughtful lyrics of the opening track, Sleepytime in the Western World, or the acoustic catchiness of the guitar and lyrical rhythm in the title track, Furr. There is a narcissistic, yet cheerful beat in the track, God & Suicide. The only place the album struggles is with Love U. I still cannot make it all the way through. Someone please enlighten me here.
The album continues with Stolen Shoes & a Rifle, a particular favorite of mine. I am a sucker for steel guitar where you least expect it. It is beautifully included here. It continues with a Bob Dylan-esque feel with Lady on the Water and concludes with bonus track, Ballad of Bird Love. The final track brings all of the elements back together for a nice finale.
Portland-based Blitzen Trapper deserves four out of five spins for a thought provoking and overall amazing album. Kudos to Erin and JJ for leading us to this band! And congrats on the big day ☺.
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