Blitzen Trapper - Black River Killer [EP]

Sub Pop

October 20, 2009, 04:56 PM

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I just listened to “Black River Killer” - the new 7-track EP from Blitzen Trapper. A six-piece Folk Rock band from Portland, OR. The sound is organic, with mostly acoustic instruments, except for the variety of keyboards which keep this from sounding too much like Folk music. These are well-written songs with cool lyrics and chord progressions that deviate from what you expect. This is enough to really please the ear. The production is top notch as well, with sunny acoustic guitar, gentle percussion that still figures prominently, interesting keys and sweet harmony vocals.

Listening to “Black River Killer,” I hear Jacob Dylan, Grant Lee Phillips, and Wilco – not enough that I would call this Blitzen Trapper derivative, it’s just what I’m reminded of. There is a Beatles-esque quality running under the songs as well. Most of "Black River Killer" features bright, appealing Pop songs ('Preachers Sisters Boy,' 'Silver Moon') that make it clear why Wilco invited Blitzen Trapper out on tour with them. The sound is similar to Wilco’s release “Summerteeth” and would appeal to the same audience.

Blitzen Trapper definitely have their own voice, though. The title track, for example, is dark folky song about an Old West desperado / serial killer. A couple of sleepy ballads, 'Shoulder Full of You' and 'Black Rock,' aren’t boring, but rather display Blitzen Trapper’s depth and range.

I liked this release a lot and I am going to lay my hands on their earlier work as soon as I’m able too. I have already ordered their previous release “Furr,” (Sub Pop), which Rolling Stone ranked #13 on their Best Albums of 2008 list. Blitzen Trapper are talented and on their way up. A strong release like “Black River Killer” can only help them reach a wider audience.

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