Living alone for three months in a log cabin is going to give you some time to think and this in depth reflection is evident in the folky tales of Justin Vernon, AKA Bon Iver.
Vernon's double-tracked voice fills out the (near) title track from his critically acclaimed debut album, accompanied in the majority with just a strummed guitar and some smooth, round country picking. It is pretty, but could be seen as a little average if this was all it had to offer. Yet the introduction of some beautiful and understated brass brings the song to life. It's just a touch, but those ramshackled horns from Boston musicians John DeHaven and Randy Pingrey are all that are needed.
Bon Iver is one of the modern-day folk favourites along with Fleet Foxes, the Fence Collective gang, Laura Marling - the list goes on. It's a worthy accolade though and makes you want to hear what next year will bring from his own, homemade, studio in the woods.
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