Bon Iver – S/T

The challenge of summing up Bon Iver’s self titled second album in about 500 words probably doesn’t quite come close to the challenge Bon Iver faced when beginning work on this second record. ‘For Emma, Forever Ago’, after all is arguably one of the most celebrated albums released in recent years and it has a special place in the heart of thousands of listeners – a follow-up to such a well crafted hit is undoubtedly a daunting task.

The first thing to note about the album is that it has retained all the echoey, intimate atmosphere of ‘For Emma, Forever Ago’ but has not relied on quite the same form of quiet reflection – indeed, it’s a livelier album with a much busier sound. Opener ‘Perth’ gives an immediate impression of what to expect – a beautifully strung guitar section is gently overtaken by the familiar haunting vocals of Justin Vernon and a faint drum roll. It’s not long before the song changes again to introduce a pounding drumbeat and a plethora of brass instruments to bring the song to its fantastic crescendo. The bigger, bolder sound of this track immediately draws us from the gentler world of ‘For Emma’ and introduces a bolder beast.

That’s not to say the album is heavy or high-octane – it’s still a relaxing and reflective experience. The vocals are chilling and remarkable throughout and a voice with the character and presence of Vernon’s is a rare one indeed. The sense of longing present in ‘Holocene’ is staggering, while the power in ‘Beth / Rest’ is incredibly striking. For a voice whose tone doesn’t make many drastic swings or changes, Justin’s is an incredibly varied performance. The music is generally a little more complex this time around, with slick electric guitar licks dancing between everything from trumpets to heavy synth sounds. The evolution of Bon Iver’s sound here feels incredibly natural and it really sets the two albums apart.

‘Bon Iver’ is an album of many highlights. ‘Calgary’ features a fantastic and moody undertone of synth which accompanies a steadily progressing drum beat that fits together really well. The middle-eighth section where Vernon’s vocals become sharper and louder brings goose bumps every time too. ‘Wash.’ Features a really sweet piano part that runs throughout and its beauty is definitely in its simplicity. ‘Holocene’ is unbelievably atmospheric and is totally addictive – it lends itself to multiple listens. There aren’t any real low-points on the album, either – it’s a solid offering all-round and absolutely worthy of standing alongside the incredible ‘For Emma, Forever Ago’. It doesn’t quite hit the same deep, emotional chord, but it’s certainly poignant enough to make up for that in its sheer scope.

‘Bon Iver’ is a very unique experience which every real music fan should try out. It’s an incredibly characteristic and memorable album from one of the most emotionally involving artists available today and deserves every bit as much praise as its predecessor.

Tracklist :

01. Perth
02. Minnesota, WI
03. Holocene
04. Towers
05. Michicant
06. Hinnom, TX
07. Wash.
08. Calgary
09. Lisbon, OH
10. Beth/Rest

Glen Lewis