If you’re familiar with the “freak folk†movement and the likes of Devendra Banhart and Joanna Newsom, you may not be interested in Vetiver. Although they may have become friends, Andy Cabic (the force behind the band) has certainly broken new ground. On this record Cabic’s acoustic pop aesthetic sounds more like Josh Rouse than freak folk. Vetiver’s first outing on Sub Pop is quite accessible.
Right out of the gate, Cabic sounds more like an acoustic songwriter. The aptly named “Rolling Sea†has a delicate layered acoustic guitar feeling. The lyrics “wouldn’t you love to be out on the rollin’ sea with only the sky above you for a roof what if all your friends were there laugh at all your jokes and share sweet salt air with you wouldn’t that be good you know it would.†It’s a simple song and the second person serves it well. It has the intimate feel of a demo with the high-fidelity of a studio.
While the record never reaches this high point again, there are many strong pop numbers that sound more pop than freak. While some tunes have a bit more of an slow ambient feel, the upbeat numbers bring back the pacing. The simple rhythmic percussion and uptempo guitar chords drive “More of This†from start to finish.
“On the Other Side†begins with a simple electronic percussion groove. The bass and acoustic come in layer upon layer and you almost forget the electronic feel started the song. It’s another gentle yet accessible acoustic number. Cabic’s voice seems both simple and natural. He doesn’t strain to hit a note. He seems to play by his own rules vocally.
Vetiver has some rougher stranger (more freakish) portions, but overall the record is quite accessible. It’s easy going, doesn’t make you think too much. That’s not an insult, it’s easy to like and easy to come back to. It won’t change your life but perhaps it’ll get Cabic some exposure on pop end of the musical spectrum. He deserves it.
About the author: Jeff is a teacher in the Boston area. When not buried correcting papers, Jeff can be found plucking various stringed instruments and listening to all types of americana music.