Fleet Foxes - Helplessness Blues

UK Release: 03/05/11 - Bella Union

Going platinum in the UK has been a real challenge for artists not sucked in by the Cowell machine, but little-known Seattle folk outfit Fleet Foxes managed it no problem with their outstanding self-titled debut. Following such a success is always going to take time and inspiration which isn't always easy to come by, which is why we are so grateful they didn't rush and delayed their release until the spring of 2011. Helplessness Blues has proven that Fleet are no one-trick-ponies as their momentous reviews of their debut spurred them on to produce a follow-up worthy of savouring for years to come.

With an intention to make the record "less poppy" (Pitchfork), frontman Robin Pecknold warned it may bore people. He never needed to doubt himself; although slightly less upbeat, we were gifted with the genius of the 8-minute 'The Shrine / An Argument' and album closer 'Grown Ocean'. Fleet Foxes express more than just their beautiful vocal harmonies and drowsy, optimistic guitars; Pecknold's unique ways of composition to control our emotions are put to perfection in the former of these tracks.

Courtesy of scannerfm_flickr, Fleet Foxes lead, Robin Pecknold

Troubles in the build-up of an album always occur and the stress was too much for Pecknold's girlfriend of five years. He became obsessed. However, upon hearing the final outcome she understood it was all worth it and gave them another chance (Contact Music). I agree; it seems ridiculous to let talent like his leave your life after he delivers such magnificent results!

Although still waiting to see the band in action, I had the pleasure of a solo set by Pecknold supporting the glorious Joanna Newsom at Portland's Aladdin Theatre. We were treated to Helplessness Blues tasters 'Tripolee' (which later become 'The Shrine / An Argument'), and 'Blue Spotted Tail' amongst others as a fitting preview. Fairly unaware of his talents at the time, I was sure to keep his work on my radar.

Fleet have inspired with their elegant and educated stunning second album, and it will only become more challenging as the expectations rise again.

Rating: 8/10

Visit Fleet Foxes' official site here.

Please use the music player at the top of the screen for more Fleet Foxes tracks!

Below is the intriguing animated music video made by Sean Pecknold (Robin Pecknold's brother) for the song 'The Shrine / An Argument':