By Joshua Davis–
Releasing their third full-length in three years, Bowerbirds have clearly taken time crafting the sound and energy permeating The Clearing. Hailing from Raleigh, N.C., the band has entered its sixth year with a solid and enjoyable set of recordings.
Pulling together acoustic influences and electronic celerity, The Clearing offers a warm tone and pulsing tempos. Strings are used tastefully, adding depth and fluidity to the steady drums and guitar rhythms. It is clear their newest member, Leah, who contributes her own cello and synth skills, further molds their sound.
Bowerbirds is heavily influenced by folk music, and although their sound is unique, it does not vary through the album. Often relying on similar chord progressions, songs are defined by the stories told through the music. As songwriters, they are intriguing and enjoyable. The last year of personal turmoil has turned into a beautifully expressive and haunting album. The Clearing is their most polished release to date. They continue to pull in new players and ideas, gaining international notoriety.
An international tour is coinciding with the March release, kicking off in North Carolina. It is their first tour as a five-piece band and they are ready to hit the road after months of constant work launching The Clearing. The United States portion of the tour will be alongside another indie-folk group, Dry the River. They will part ways as Bowerbirds heads to Copenhagen for the start of a European tour.
The Clearing will be released through iTunes, as well as on CD and analog vinyl. Various limited edition packages are available for purchase from their web site at Bowerbirds.com. Look for the album on March 6.
Photo courtesy Dead Oceans
