Rewind to 2007: Atlanta five-piece Deerhunter releases its second album, Cryptograms, to rave reviews. The band solidifies its place in the indie limelight with an excellent follow-up (the Fluorescent Grey EP), while Bradford Cox, the lead singer, quickly makes a spectacle of himself—showcasing his gaunt figure in drag at concerts, decrying musician-producer Samara Lubelski, and keeping a blog about the band’s defecation habits. Guitarist Colin Mee subsequently leaves the band due to the sudden and intense press that Deerhunter receives from these exploits.
Fast-forward to 2008: Cox now has two critically-acclaimed bands to his name (Deerhunter and Atlas Sound), Mee has been replaced by Whitney Petty (a former cheerleader), and the band stands on the verge of releasing their third LP, Microcastle. The release is accompanied by more drama from Cox, who accidentally leaked new material from both of his bands a few months ago.
In short, Deerhunter understands that “all press is good press” and remain in a prime position to receive even more attention with Microcastle. Unlike the somewhat disjointed Cryptograms, Microcastle represents a successful effort to marry the atmospherics of the Fluorescent Grey EP (and parts of Cryptograms) with smart, durable hooks, lending a poppier, more engaging sound. “Never Stops” is possibly the catchiest song Deerhunter has released yet, especially in the contrast between Cox’s characteristic “ahs” and a drone-like guitar tone, while closer “Twilight at Carbon Lake” shines with an ambitious, cacophonic crescendo that smacks of Sonic Youth. It also doesn’t hurt that Cox sings on nearly every song (minus the “Intro”), which counteracts the lull that emerged in some of the slow-tempo instrumentals on Cryptograms.
Marketing ploys aside, Microcastle is a great record from an increasingly impressive band. It’s focused, diverse, and innovative, with few detractions or missteps. (https://skinnyninjamom.com/) I wouldn’t expect Deerhunter to emerge into the mainstream anytime soon, though—the public probably isn’t ready for a band that keeps a poop blog.
Voice’s Choices: “Never Stops,” “Twilight at Carbon Lake,” “Little Kids”
