As Daniel Rossen steps out from behind bands like Grizzly Bear and Department of Eagles, bands which really are his signature sound, fans must wonder if the results here will be radically different than the aforementioned acts. The tunes that comprise “Silent Hour/Golden Mile” were, in fact, originally recorded for a new Grizzly Bear album, but instead, Rossen takes these tracks and makes his most accessible set of songs to date.

The opening track, “Up on High” serves as that simple introduction to Rossen; it doesn’t progress much, and the instrumentation is minimal. It almost has this Ray LaMontagne style to it via “Be Here Now.” The second track, “Silent Song” steps it up a bit, again the progression is very minimal, but it tinges of All Things Must Pass era George Harrison. Hell, it feels like it could have walked right out of the album, and sat with you on a bench for a conversation. The albums finest achievement is “Return to Form.” Here, Rossen’s ability to arrange just stuns on this track, and his guitar picking is bordering on robotic, it’s that impossible.

This album flirts with genius on every avenue, it’s lack of progression at times is a hindrance, but it’s charm is hard to ignore. It’s nostalgic, and it’s revolutionary; quite plainly put, it’s a record that you should check out.

Album Rating (Modified Rating): Stream It or Digitally Download It (Legally of Course)

Listening Co-efficient: Active Listen

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