The Decemberists - The Hazards Of Love

(EMI) CD, 2LP coming soon
Colin Meloy & co. took some brave left turns with The Crane Wife. The group’s forays into prog & classic rock took many a longtime fan by surprise, with many onlookers unfortunately missing out on a group willing to challenge itself & stretch their already established aesthetic. The Hazards Of Love continues this winding path, delving even deeper into the deep dark forest. Meloy’s storytelling is framed with heavy riffing & beautiful lead vocal turns from Shara Worden (aka My Brightest Diamond). Again, a far cry from the acoustic balladry of Castaways & Cutouts but it’s nice to see one of indie-rock’s staples taking some creative chances.