Okkervil River - I AmVery Far

Mon 30th May, 2011 in Music Reviews

Okkervil River return with their sixth studio album, I Am Very Far, professing a distinct departure from past endeavours. I Am Very Far is a record born from Will Sheff’s reported aversion to that which could be considered “crowd-pleasing” in the context of the band’s illustrious career. Ironically, front man Sheff has achieved accessible enough compromise here, their latest release a worthy investment alongside their brilliant catalogue.

Opener The Valley kicks things off in style, lashing snares defining a ferocious stomping procession. A kind of sea-shanty rhyme ensues, strings and synthesisers igniting an epic, angst-ridden introduction. It’s sharp, melodic brilliance at its finest and sees Okkervil River in exciting form. Follow-up Piratess presents a cool take on Spoon’s Kill-The-Moonlight-aesthetic for a soothing result, a liquid ambiance laying the foundations for Sheff’s beautifully haunting delivery. The song unfolds modestly, whilst remaining compelling.

Okkervil River are to be commended for the pacing of I Am Very Far, the album often ascending to new enticing heights with each track. White Shadow Waltz showcases their most enthused and impassioned efforts, resulting in an indie kids’ Viva La Vida. The song glides gracefully, a soaring string section adding a touch of majesty to proceedings. Meanwhile, We Need A Myth bounces with a similarly rousing result, its orchestrated crescendos meeting Sheff’s piercing cries. Much of the album’s middle appears bursting with life, the record’s best moments defined by the band’s sudden and exciting urgency.

To this end, it’s unsurprising that Wake And Be Fine should have been wheeled out in promotion of the record. It is, undoubtedly, one of the best offerings available here, marked by its rousing, melodramatic nature. It’s a stomping, wild-west saloon anthem, Sheff’s silver-tongued delivery paving the way for a simple, yet effective chorus. Outside of the album’s more obvious attractions are its slower, romanticised tracks. The band switch effortlessly between enthused rock and roll as sharp as a tack and their renowned lush aesthetic, concealing a raw vulnerability.

I Am Very Far succeeds in its tendency to spruik an intriguing quality whilst retaining warmth and familiarity. This is a record not only for fans, but anyone looking to ascertain just what Okkervil River are all about.