This, the band’s seventh studio album is one that is undoubtedly the most complete, eloquent and refined album Bright Eyes have done. ‘The People’s Key‘ is an artfully arranged album that deserves to be admired, praised and respected.
Conor Oberst is renowned for his captivating songwriting abilities, and this album showcases it in absolute abundance. It’s enthralling and honest and beautiful, and far removed from the folk sound that the band had conveyed in previous albums. This was a conscious decision from the band and has been made clear from comments made by Oberst regarding the Americana and Country tag that they have become labelled with, which had ‘worn thin’ with him. Although it couldn’t be considered ‘rocking’, it’s certainly a more evolved sound that has been achieved with huge success.
‘Shell Games‘ is a great track that’s immediately infectious and compelling, with sharp lyrics – ‘I was dressed in white touched by something pure, death obsessed like a teenager, sold my tortured youth…I’m still angry with no reason to be’ – that show the depth of feelings that overflow from Oberst’s songs. ‘One For You, One For Me‘ puts a smile on your face and a spring in your step and demonstrates the vocal abilities that Oberst possesses. ‘Beginner’s Mind‘ is another absolute gem that deserves to be singled out for praise, along with ‘Approximated Sunlight‘.
Overall, Bright Eyes have created an album of which they can be proud and if this is the last album they release under that title, they have bowed out in style and on top. The album has been produced by fellow band-member and fellow Nebraskan Mike Mogis, whilst the intriguing voice at the start of the album that commentates on everything from the expanding universe to aliens belongs to Denny Brewer of Refried Ice Cream.
With the launch of the album comes a very intimate tour, one that will suit this album perfectly and includes two very special dates: Radio City Music Hall in New York City on March 9th and London’s famed Royal Albert Hall on June 23rd. Full details of the tour can be found at their site thisisbrighteyes.com. The album is released on February 15th, and is available at NPR until then.
(Barry Begg)
