Bon Iver - Bon Iver

Bon Iver - Bon Iver
Genre: Alternative/Folk
Rating: 9/10

Bon Iver is the brainchild of singer/songwriter Justin Vernon. The project first began way back in 2006 where Vernon, following a messy break up and the dissolution of his band DeYarmond Edison, disappeared off to a cabin in Wisconsin. Whilst he was there he began writing and recording what would eventually become 2008's critically acclaimed album "For Emma, Forever Ago". The original album was independently released by Vernon in 2007 but after garnering praise and encouragement from friends he sent it over to several labels eventually signing with indie label Jagjaguwar who launched it into the mainstream. Since then Bon Iver has been lavished with critical praise from all corners of the globe and his new found fame has even seen him duet with superstars like Kanye West. All of this has made Bon Iver's second self titled album possibly this years most anticipated release.

In terms of sound Bon Iver's first record For Emma, Forever Ago was a subtle lo-fi record which mostly consisted of simple honest acoustic guitar strumming and Vernon's now trademark harmonic falsetto style. The album was noted for it's subtle nuances and complexities and it's raw sound. Recorded with only very primitive equipment the whole album felt delicate and personal. Bon Iver's second album however couldn't be further away from this debut. Whilst Vernon's unmistakable songbird falsetto returns the overlapping vocals and low-fi production are long gone. Keyboards, synths and electric guitars replace the creaking floorboards and primitive percussion from For Emma, Forever Ago. Regardless of the changes that have been made Bon Iver is a triumphant record filled to the brim with beauty and emotion. Opener "Perth" is one of many highlights the album has to offer with it's simple melancholic guitar creating a sparse atmosphere that slowly drifts into the drums of a marching band. The song is peppered with familiar elements from previous recordings like trumpets and trombones before reaching apowerful and dramatic ending. Other highlights include the brilliantly realised "Minnesota, WI" which transitions from the reverby intro into delicate spanish acoustic guitars and Vernon's almost choral refrain. "Michicant" is another standout track supplying the stripped back folk that is expected of Bon Iver with synthesizers used subtly to add greater emphasis and power to the overall tone. From start to finish the album manages to step out from behind it's predecessors shadow and provides a much more accessible and palatable sound. The added touches of keyboards and synthesizers accentuate the potent and powerful emotion behind each track perfectly.

Overall Bon Iver's second album is brilliant. From start to finish the songs are powerful and poignant whilst retaining the fragility and heartache of Vernon's debut. Whilst a stylistic shift away from Bon Iver's traditional folk roots the changes are all executed brilliantly not just preserving the reputation Vernon built but surpassing it.  It is unlikely you will find a better album this year. Highly recommended.

Download: "Holocene" "Michicant"