May 11, 2009

Elvis Perkins In Dearland - Elvis Perkins In Dearland (2009)

Perkins deserves all the praise and lofty comparisons that he receives. For his sophomore release, Perkins assembled a talented backing band to fill-out his folky, singer-songwriter approach, and the rounded-out sound could not be better crafted. From start to finish, Elvis Perkins In Dearland's diverse, acoustic rock and folk influences meld into catchy—sometimes touching, sometimes uplifting—musical story pieces. Perkins' voice is both melodically endearing, like on the slow and sentimental "Hours Last Stand," and enthusiastically jumpy, like on the upbeat "I Heard Your Voice In Dresden." The assorted instrumentation stays in step with the tone of the vocals, and the poetic lyrics exemplify why Perkins is one of the more well regarded song writers over the past few years. Elvis Perkins In Dearland is worth both a purchase and a listen. He is currently on tour now, so plan accordingly.

For a taste of my favorite song off the album, watch this studio video for "Shampoo."

7 Comments:

Brasilliant said...

We saw him for the first time a few years ago in D.C. I was hooked. This album by far is my favorite. His sound is sort of acoustic singer-songwriter meets New Orleans jazz funeral. Love it!

Nightrain said...

Yeah. I enjoyed his first album, but never REALLY got into it. This one grabbed a hold of me over the last few weeks, and now I too am hooked.

janina said...

I really love this fella, the song "while you were sleeping" infected me for months after I head it on the take away shows. I havent listened to the new album, but I can't wait to pick it up.

Brasilliant said...

"While You Were Sleeping" is the song that hooked me too. It's still one of my favorites.

sandenuts said...

This guy is friggin talented, wow...

Brasilliant said...

Woah, I just watched the video. I didn't even recognize Elvis Perkins. He's grown out his hair. I seem to recall a corduroy blazer at the concert in DC a few years ago.

Nightrain said...

Yeah. Goin' for the John Lennon look... all he needs are some circular glasses and he's all set.