WOLF PARADE – At Mount Zoomer

Originally published in Verbicide issue #25

Any current fans of this Montreal indie rock band will not be disappointed with their sophomore effort. Although no great experimenting is present here compared to their first release, Wolf Parade shows much wisdom by holding off on branching out too much. The second album is often the most difficult for any music group, but WP was wise enough to give their listeners more of what they’ve come to love: a euphoric collection of catchy yet intelligently crafted songs that will be more appreciated by those with longer attention spans and a trained ear for details. Founding member, Spencer Krug, continues to provide listeners with his band’s signature keyboard work, while singer Dan Boeckner delivers his vocals in an almost stressed out style that magnifies the urgency of the lyrics. If you’re musical library consists of The Shins, Modest Mouse, The Decemberists, Bloc Party, or any other band hip enough for college radio, be sure to check At Mount Zoomer.

(Sub Pop Records, 2013 4th Avenue, Third Floor, Seattle, WA 98121)