Since I discovered Golden Bear last year, I have been looking forward to their second release. A buddy of mine asked me why I liked them so much, and the best answer I could give was that they just write good songs. Nothing more profound than that. Normally I can babble on and on, but I felt tongue-tied in trying to explain my infatuation with the Austin-based band.
Now after countless spins of their second disc, To the Farthest Star, I think I finally put my finger on it. Golden Bear constructs perfect songs, each with a blend of spontaneity and purpose. There is no excess. Each guitar lick, drumroll, and horn fill seems to be perfectly placed without effort. To the Farthest Star is an amazing accomplishment for a band that self-recorded the album out of lead singer’s Chris ‘Grizzle’ Gregory’s house.
Each song seems to be built on something simple: a chord progression or a bass line. They simply surround that foundation with some perfect compliments to give each song its own unique sound and texture. Nothing sounds forced or overdone. The title track, for instance, starts slow with a little non-descript keyboard and the rest of the band slowly fills in around it for the first verse. During the second verse, the band is joined by some strings to give it a maudlin sound. And finally at around the 2:45 mark, it slowly works into a mellow anthem finish. It’s understated, but so goddamn perfect. The song blows my mind every time I listen to it.
Each song on the disc have its own nuances and hooks that will take you in. With each listen you’ll find a little something that you didn’t hear before. For me, that’s the difference between a good album and a great album. To The Farthest Star is a great album.
Golden Bear – Darkness Sets In
Also check out this video from their last album:
Golden Bear – Santa Rosa (Video)
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