July 23, 2008
The Avett Brothers show their softer side
Posted by Stacy Chandler at July 23, 2008 1:56 PMThe Avett Brothers
The Second Gleam
Released July 22 by Ramseur Records
The follow-up to "The Gleam" EP finds the Avett Brothers in an even more introspective mood. They're thinking about home and family, likely a reaction to their growing fame and widening scope of touring. The songs are gentle and quiet, and beautiful in that stark, simple way that the Avetts do so well. There's not a lot of flowery language here, nor are there showy instrumental solos. The melodies are gorgeous, usually the creation of just a strummed guitar or two. But the real beauty -- and power -- of this EP comes from turns of phrase that strike the listener as True (yes, with a capital T), and something that True can strike the listener hard without the aid of volume or a kick-drum (or, thank God, snippets from answering machine messages). Not that I don't love some volume and a kick-drum. But if it's manic, leaping, break-shit Avett Brothers you want, you won't find 'em here.
But stay tuned, break-shit fans. The Avetts are hard at work on their next full-length album, under the tutelage of producer Rick Rubin for American Records. While Rubin showed his chops for understatement with his work on Johnny Cash's final albums, he's also worked with such higher-volume acts as Jay-Z, Justin Timberlake and the Beastie Boys. So let "The Second Gleam" be your deep breath before the next chapter of the Avett Brothers story. I'm guessing it'll require a seat belt.
Top tracks: Murder in the City; Souls Like the Wheels
Note: In CD form, the EP has six tracks. But the vinyl version has two bonus tracks (not reviewed here). Those bonus tracks also are available for online purchase on their own.
I'm concerned about this album label move. Although American has some great hits to its name, let us not forget that it's owned by Columbia Records... and they've ruined several of my favorite local bands. Anyone remember Robinella or Jump, Little Children? Both great bands with home-grown, small-label records, signed with Columbia, got a "make-over," and vanished.
I'm crossing my fingers for the Avetts. They've been my favorite band of the past couple of years, and I want them to sound BETTER, not worse, for the move.
Oh, and I spoke with Dolph Ramseur of Ramseur Records, and he's staying on as their management, if not their record label. That makes me feel better.
Posted by: larry at July 25, 2008 8:52 AMI understand the concerns, but the Avett Brothers have been true to their sound for a very long time. And it's their unique sound that has attracted so many fans. I don't think there will be any type of "make-over," the boys wouldn't allow it and the sound is what go them where they are in the first place.
Posted by: aburtch at July 29, 2008 12:48 PM
