The King Is Dead - The Decemberists

One of the first reviews I wrote on dooyoo was the last D Decemberists album. I loved that album with a passion, and over a year later I am happy to report that their newest offering is equally excellent, although a completely different beast. *Who are The Decemberists anyway?* They are a musical outfit from Portland Oregon that originally formed in 2000. Since they started recording in 2001 they have released approximately 6 albums and 5 EPs using varying styles of music, loosely described as indie folk. Amongst their other credits they have delivered a song for Nickleodeon s Yo Gabba Gabba, while their singer Colin Meloy has produced a solo album of Morrissey covers. ...

Hazards of Love - Decemberists

This album is so good it makes me cry. To call it ambitious would be an understatement, as it aims to tell a complete fairy tale, employing a wide variety of musical styles, instruments and vocals along the way. In doing so, it also incorporates traditional folk concepts and some awesome guest appearances. As a rock piece, this would happily be called a concept album. As a folk piece, it features some great songs and ideas. As a comprehensive package, it does much more. As is usually the way with soundtracks (as this is in some ways - in fact a complete film piece was used as a backdrop for a couple of special live shows), the central theme is introduced musically ...