The Chicago-based multi-instrumental genius Andrew Bird, once called the Quentin Tarantino of American indie music, has been wowing music critics since the mid-nineties with his ever-changing style. "Armchair Apocrypha," released earlier this month, is his seventh studio album and a much anticipated follow up to his 2005 breakthrough release "The Mysterious Production of Eggs." The unprecedented quirky and mellifluous gem earned him a spot on the iPods of even the most clueless indie rock kids. Though the new album is rich in texture, rife with Bird's signature whistle, intricate arrangements and beautiful lyrics that make you think, big fans of "Mysterious Production" might be disappointed. With the exception of "Imitosis," a rework of a song Bird previously released as "I" on "Weather Systems," the tracks on "Apocrypha" are heavy in electric guitar and light on the violin and glockenspiel that made the last album so wonderfully eccentric. Still, the album is stunning and should not be overlooked. And as if being a legendary songwriter was not enough, Bird is also an active progressive. He has greened his tour by committing to biodiesel, organic food, recycling initiatives and carbon offsets.
2008 Woodie Awards
Be the first to comment on this story