CONSIDER THE BIRDS

From the opening notes of the surprisingly direct "Sparrow Falls", it is clear that David Eugene Edwards has largely placed the missteps of "Blush Music" in the past. Banished are the ambient textures and sound effects, and the result is a more consistent effort in the underrepresented realm of progressive American folk.

Particularly notable are the simply effective keyboard lines in said opener, the plaintive "Oil on Panel", and the ominous "The Speaking Hands". Edwards' voice has never sounded more emotive and it looks good on him, but rest assured this is still largely shrouded in cathartic tristesse. "Down in Yon Forest" is an exception that veers into trad British Isles territory and works surprisingly well. "Chest of Drawers" is a largely acoustic ballad that sounds like it was recorded under a desert moon, with sparse inventive percussion and a simply appealing melody and lyrics. Unfortunately, the processed voices and sounds of "Off the Cuff" and the grating earnestness of "To Make a Ring" represent another facet that remains an impediment to consistent enjoyment.

"Consider the Birds", like spring migration, is a pleasure in itself but is even more noteworthy for what it portends.