Let me begin by saying I was skeptical regarding the Portland based Blitzen Trapper's new album Destroyer of the Void. After the wild success of the bands 2008 release of their sparkling, sugar coated, 4th full length album Furr, I wasn't certain if they could top it. This assumption was partly correct. But I'm not here to judge albums based upon their predecessor. Based solely on the music itself it is still one of their most triumphant albums. With ear-pleasing vocals, Harmonicas, and old time saloon pianos and a feel of authentic western music, this album delivers everything expected and a little more. The opening, and title track of this album kicks off with the classic rock reminiscent lyrics of "for to love is to leave, for to run like a rolling stone". This piano backed track is a good opener but nothing more is expected of it. The quality tracks however start about 4 tracks in with "The Man Who Would Speak True". This song puts in mind a similar tune "Black River Killer" from the previous album with its dark (and slightly humourous) underlying storyline of an outlaw.
The remainder of the album provides everything you could hope for from a group that's been in the musical trade for a decade now. "Dragon Song" supplies an elegant sun-coated melody that Blitzen Trapper does so well. The track "Evening Star" tells the story of a wild teenage partyer and is backed as always by the simple western guitars, and heavy strummed base that have made this sextet a force to be reckoned with.
This Album provides a different, but somewhat pleasurable side to the band then what was shown in their previous endeavors. It is not for everyone but is a good buy for anyone looking to broaden their musical pallet.
- A.W.
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