Although they’re often lumped together with indie rock artists, Fleet Foxes are, at heart, a folk group. That folksy sound helped them develop a steady listening base with their eponymous 2008 debut, and they remain true to it on their sophomore release, Helplessness Blues. The album proves to be a strong follow-up, with shining moments that are pleasant enough to make even the grouchiest person smile yet powerful enough to get the lethargic stoners out of their seats.
In lieu of straying from the sound that made them famous, Fleet Foxes thankfully stick to their tried-and-true path on Helplessness Blues, which features the familiar hymns, timid percussion, and call-of-the-wild lyrics that earned the band its notoriety in 2008. “Montezuma,” the album’s opener, recreates that fantastic Fleet Foxes sound without offering a whole lot more. But deeper in the album you’ll find “Battery Kinzie,” which picks up the pace with a bright melody and delightfully distinguishable chorus.
Helplessness Blues also brings some ambitious (or at least lengthy) material to the table. “The Plains/Bitter Dancer” nears six minutes, but like a good Crosby, Stills, and Nash song, the tune never gets tired and it offers a fulfilling conclusion. The title track has a two-halved structure, and plays out like a bright version of an Arcade Fire song—a rare combination indeed. Special accolades belong to “Lorelai,” a lick whose quick tempo and cheerful melody will make you want to climb a tree, go to the zoo, or chat with the next telemarketer who calls until you two become lifelong friends.
Without getting too deep into the album, the band’s desire to produce bright and upbeat tunes becomes clear. It’s a breath of fresh air for a second album, especially given all the attention Fleet Foxes have received—no dark and depressing, self-indulgent ballads about the perils of critical acclaim here. Rather, Helplessness Blues carries all the way through with 12 distinct songs that give Fleet Foxes fans more of what originally turned them on to the band.
Voice’s Choices: “Lorelai,” “Battery Kinzie,” “Grown Ocean”
