If you haven’t listened to this album, you need to. Right now. In fact, scroll to the bottom of this post, click on the first song, and then scroll back here to read the rest of this while you listen. I’ll wait.
If you know anything about Beck, you know that he moves through genres like it’s nothing. Pick any album of his and it probably isn’t going to sound like his others. Although it might seem difficult to be a musical chameleon and still make amazing music, Beck makes it look easy, and his 2014 release Morning Phase proves it. The songs range from dramatic, orchestral songs to ones that have a hint of country twang to them, and it all works. The opening track “Cycle” is a short, symphonic piece that works as a distant segue throughout the album. The slow-building drama that was in the works during “Cycle” leads directly into the acoustic guitar of “Morning”. The main theme of acoustic guitar work continues throughout the album, giving it a warm, folk-country feel that can be felt more clearly during “Say Goodbye”. The reappearance of the orchestra-fueled drama that continues in “Wave” juxtaposes well with the more relaxed, folk vibe that the majority of the album exudes. Speaking of vibes, individual songs reveal hints of other possible influences, including Simon & Garfunkel (“Turn Away”) and 80s ballads (“Unforgiven”, “Waking Light”).
Overall, Beck manages to combine an orchestra, folk-country acoustic guitar melodies, 80s balladry, and rich vocals into an album that is well-rounded and immensely beautiful.
My rating: 4/5
-N
Mixtape Musings 