Artist: Murder By Death
Album: Red of Tooth and Claw
Label: Vagrant
Release Date: March 4th, 2008
Decision: 4/5 A Worthy Purchase Indeed
Favorite Tunes: “Comin’ Home”, “Theme”, “Spring Break 1899”
1. The Background
This is the fourth full release from Murder By Death, and my goodness, is it a good one. I really enjoyed Who Will Survive, and What Will be Left of Them? but thought In Bocca al Lupo was dissapointing, so I was hoping their latest release would get me excited again. For a broad idea of this band’s sound, think Westerny Folk Rock. Yeh. Modern music for that showdown you have at noon in front of the saloon.
2. The Substance
Acoustic guitars, electric guitars, keyboards, cellos and amazing vocals fill this album. Adam Turla’s vocals are really spot on here, and (did anyone notice?) his voice is so much deeper and more powerful than on previous releases. It’s like he aged 30 years in 3, but it’s really not a problem for the album; it adds to the overall feel. The lyrics are descriptive and very story-like (another of Mr. Turla’s talents), but the only thing lacking in them are the simple choruses. It doesn’t necessarily harm any of the songs; they just seem to be almost too simple for what I’d expect from this band. However, that was just a minor thing I noticed; the metaphors and imagery used in this album are excellent. Every instrument is recorded well, though I felt the keys could have been emphasized a bit more. They seem to get lost in the background a little more than I’d like in some of the busier songs. The arrangements are well done, though, and I especially enjoyed “Theme”, the only instrumental track on the album. This band seems to understand where lyrics aren’t essential to a song and the track serves as a good break from the action.
3. The Decision
4/5 A Worthy Purchase Indeed. Purchase this album! It may be something you’ve never really heard before (because it is different), but it’s definitely a good buy. Give it some time and you’ll most likely come around. It’s enjoyable beginning to end. Start this album anywhere between and it runs just as well. The last song is an especially interesting end to the story. These guys are also on tour right now, so look out for them around your area. I’m sure they’re great live.
