Note: Leaving the Nest is Benjy’s debut album (he released an EP with the same title earlier this year). It was co-produced and mixed by Fugazi drummer Brendan Canty.
Sound: Backporch folk, old-time country, swingin’ rockabilly, 60s mod rock, Brit pop, chamber pop and more with a modern, indie rock spin. The vintage flavor is beefed up with period-sounding violins and cellos, creaky harmonicas and early 20th century harmonies, but the production keeps it 21st century.
Heavy Rotation tracks: “Leaving the Nest (It’s a Long Way Down)”; “In the Countryside”
Medium Rotation tracks: “Hollywood Sign”; “Private Honeymoon”; “The Desert”
Explicit Lyrics*: none
Recommended: If you like the way artists like The Decemberists, M. Ward and The Shins can spin classic sounds into pop nuggets for a new generation.
Grade: A–

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* Noting of explicit lyrics is for the benefit of radio music directors or anyone else that needs/wants to keep their music FCC-friendly.