After two solid albums on Sub Pop, Band of Horses moved to their first major label release with 2010’s Infinite Arms – a more polished effort than found on the looser reverb drenched albums of the past. Mirage Rock finds the band maturing and taking things to the next level, leaving behind their trademark shimmering guitar rock in favor of a laid back and earthy sound. The album was produced by Glyn Johns (Bob Dylan, The Rolling Stones, The Who and Led Zeppelin), so it is no surprise that on the opening track “Knock Knock” we find Band of Horses delving further into hooky 70’s American rock. The album progresses to a softer AM radio sound on “Dumpster World.” “Slow Cruel Hands of Time” incorporates their southern roots with a finger-picked acoustic melody that blends seamlessly with Ben Bridwell’s vocals and setting the tone for his narrative songwriting, while the intensely riff laden “Feud” shows that the band can still rock out. Mirage Rock is a strong addition to the band’s discography. – Written by JFelton
SIMILAR | The Deep Dark Woods, Fleet Foxes, The Moondoggies, My Morning Jacket, Poor Moon, Tyler Ramsey