The Avett Brothers
The Magpie and the Dandelion
Reviewed by: Ricky Haldis
The sun is out, the scent of falling leaves is hanging in the cool, autumn breeze as you find yourself lying in a field of dandelions, staring into the boundless blue sky after a long drive in the countryside. That distinctive sensation inside your body is buzzing with happiness and relaxation as you realize that life is good, and that you haven’t got a worry in the world. That very same feeling comes rushing back when you put on a pair of headphones to listen to the latest release from the Avett Brothers, The Magpie and the Dandelion. If the title alone wasn’t enough to fill your mind with all sorts of scenes of the rustic country-life, then the music itself will surely do the trick.
The Avett Brothers’ newest album reminisce upon the classic sounds of those such as Skynyrd and the Allmans. The Magpie and the Dandelion teems with pleasant vibes and happiness, and its lyrics are inspired by honest feelings. Even the songs that speak about unhappy events are upbeat and jubilant, resulting in an effect that can really sweep you away. As the band puts it, it promotes feelings of “youthful wonder.”
The fascinating part about this record is the sheer size and depth of the band’s sound. The recording itself, produced by veteran producer Rick Rubin, is rich, and just simply sounds good. The Magpie and the Dandelion features numerous instruments, which really fill out the group’s sound. The general style of stomping rock is greatly enhanced by the frequent use of pianos and organs, which bounce and clang over each of the eleven tracks. Tasteful banjo riffs, played by Scott Avett, flutter around as fiery fiddle solos squeal over a backdrop of upbeat drums and syncopated basslines.
The Magpie and the Dandelion is a true example of how music can affect the human body. The overall sound of the new album has the ability transport the mind to a peaceful place, and makes the listener feel and experience what the band is expressing. Be sure to check out this new release as well as their extensive catalog of full-length works, which each share the band’s amazing potential to draw in new fans.
Rating: Bad-Ass
