I first internalized Fleet Foxes in 2011, shortly after Helplessness Blues came out. I say internalize because I’d heard a few tracks before the album came out (White Winter Hymnal for sure) but did not realize how much the band connected with me — deeply — until I heard Helplessness Blues, both song and album. You probably know what I mean, even if it’s a different album or band for you: that FEELING. Tempo. Melody. Harmonies. Lyrics. All were meant for your heart, mind and soul. I’ve listened to that album over and over in the decade and a half since.
So, why is this article called “Shore is unparalleled” given the first paragraph’s enthusiastic praise for Helplessness Blues?
Simply put, Shore contains the best music I’ve ever heard. It is built of more than sound: light, motion, tactile bits of existence. It asks nothing of you except that you be awake and open. Give it a spin for yourself. It works as background music but rewards a critical listen.
When I first hear a new album, I rarely pay attention to the lyrics; my initial impressions come purely from how the audio experience makes me feel. With Shore, I connected to the lyrics as well. The quote above is a wonderful example, reminding me of how our memories and emotions are flexible things; how we felt in the past is continually reconsidered by our evolving future selves. If you like the sound of Shore, check out the lyrics at some point. They read like poetry to me.
Robin Pecknold, thank you for creating this art that will live with me forever.
If this is flat, brother I apologize.