Portland’s favorite bearded sextet, Blitzen Trapper, have just released their fifth album, Destroyer of the Void on Sub Pop. Following 08’s excellent Furr and the Black River Killer EP in 09, the six-piece have gone further down the path of 70’s folk-rock with a healthy dose of psychedelic, country and prog added in. Eric Earley comfortably spins tales ranging from murder (“Black River Killer,” “The Man Who Would Speak True”) and the memories of a traveler (“Evening Star”) to love – both bittersweet (“Sadie”) and romanticized (“The Tree,” featuring vocals from Alela Diane). Lacking clear standout tracks as they’d had with Wild Mountain Nation and Furr, Destroyer of the Void may be a slow burn for some listeners. But for anyone who enjoys the current revival of Americana and ‘70s southern rock, do yourself a favor and get this album. – Written by DBosket
SIMILAR | Band of Horses, Deer Tick, Delta Spirit, Dr. Dog, My Morning Jacket, Wilco