Grizzly Bear – Shields

Grizzly Bear – Shields
Warp: 2012

The Yellow House gang will continue to clutch onto its baby — probably on vinyl —  while the band continues their rise to indie stardom. Veckatimest lovers wonder why they cannot find a “Two Weeks”-type single they can share with their friends. Those who can take a new record as, well, a new record, will find plenty to enjoy in Grizzly Bear’s Shields.

Vocally, the delightful one-two punch of Daniel Rossen and Edward Droste continue to dazzle. There are great tracks where one or the other take the spotlight, though they’re perhaps best when sharing the workload on a single track. On “Speak In Rounds”, Droste smoothly takes care of the verses while Rossen’s takes sharp stabs on the chorus. Whether it’s due mostly to their progression as vocalists, or the interesting song structures, or a little bit of both, these two vocalists sound as cohesive as ever.

The Hunt” and “What’s Wrong” are the only real kinks in Shields‘ armor. They are the slower tunes, relying heavily on vocals that just don’t stand up to the more lively bunch. The simple approach on “Gun-Shy”, funky backbeat and all, pays off tenfold. The way “Yet Again” relentlessly lashes out, yet sounds so beautiful as it reloads for more, makes for one of the strongest tracks on the album. Above and beyond every track would be album closer “Sun In Your Eyes”, which shines brighter and brighter as the seven minute masterpiece rolls along. Each of their last three albums have a different feel, though what remains consistent is the quality. Shields should definitely get some recognition at year’s end.

4 out of 5