owl and bear

2007, Fat Cat

The Twilight Sad’s latest album, Fourteen Autumns and Fifteen Winters, is less sad than cathartic.

Their name is somewhat deceiving; those expecting funereal, ethereal, twilit soundscapes need not even give the band a second glance. If, however, you think that My Bloody Valentine sorely needs an accordion and a thicker accent, well, then this is the album for you.

Don’t let that turn you off, either. These Scots can whip up a raw emotional squall more quickly than you can say “World Cup.” The songs on this album are really powerful, and their simple construction belies the energy they hold.

The formula is simple: take a rudimentary accordion or guitar melody, sing in a normal tone of voice, pound rudimentary drum rhythm, turn guitar amps up to 11, then shout the same lyrics that were earlier sung. Simple. Potent.

Try to not shout along with the lyrics, thick Scots burr and all.

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