THE CRANE WIFE

So maybe this isn't quite the consept album that The Hazardsof Love would be and maybe the Decemberists arn't the most progressive band on earth but for me The Crane Wife is a perfect album. The Crane Wife does what few albums can balancing the best of both classic prog and modern indie pop. Now obviously the highlight of this album is the prog epic The Island which blends folky strumming hummable melodys and fun little indie rythms with overblown proggy synthesizers and art rock stylings. This is the most accessable epic I have ever had the pleasure to listen to! Other highlights include the wonderfully poppy O Valencia and the folksy title track played in three parts (out of order) both tracks fall more on the indie side than the prog side of the spectrum but the way they are presented gives them a distinctly 70s art rock vibe.

If you are a prog fan with an interest in indie or visa versa this is the album for you. Combining fun with inteligence this could be the crossover album of its generation. The Decemberists, much like Pink Floyd create some of the best prog by not giving over to being prog in its fullest sence.

Five stars for a unique album by a unique band that is full of emotion and beauty.