Band Of Horses - Infinite Arms
Stroking the indie scene with a touch that only a group of beardy men in a band can.
2010 isn’t only a year of electro pop and Tinie Tempah urging you to 'Pass Out'. Nah… a series of indie rock bands are casting their own booth in the music industry gaining respect and admiration in equal measure. Seattle group Band Of Horses are one such act. Blending a delicate mould of tender rock and Americana, the five-piece aim to set the year ablaze with their new record label Sub-Pop and third album, 'Infinite Arms'.
Stroking the indie scene with a touch that only a group of beardy men in a band can, Band Of Horses caress your ears with a warm hug and knowing glance of admiration. Latest single 'Compliments' is catchy and loveable, ticking a checklist of musical do’s to produce an unavoidably delightful track that both enthrals and pleases. Similarly, 'Factory' and 'Laredo' pull you in from the cold, thrusting a mug of cocoa in hand and a cosy musical blanket of comfort that can’t help but relax even the most uptight. Their sound follows in the footsteps of Fleet Foxes and My Morning Jacket in guitar loving simplicity, but also carves a soft rock statue that resembles the Local Natives and Goldheart Assembly.
'On My Way Back Home' induces waves of nostalgia, bouncing joyfully like a Shins track from times gone by as memories of loved ones play like a stuttering projector in your front room. The title track from the album, 'Infinite Arms' softly floats along, bathing in the sea of the Beach Boys; both sun soaked and trippy. The perkier 'Dilly' draws in a Strokes like melody, whilst 'NW Apt.' turns the amps up to 11 (well, 7 at least) chomping at a rockier bit than the rest and bringing some much needed edge to proceedings, though highlights a major issue with this album.
Since moving away from the independent labels that supported their first two outings, Band Of Horses have clearly broadened their appeal. The album is in no way bad or even unlikeable; it’s just that they don’t really take you on a new journey. Having many an influence is part of making an album, but casting your own interesting spin is essential and it’s difficult to see where Band Of Horses do this. Infinite Arms is by no means the worst thing you’ll hear all year, but it’s not going to be the best. Their Neil Young like mix of country and rock is pleasant, and at times a joy to listen to; but like not enough butter on a piece of toast, spread across twelve songs it rather falls a bit thin.
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