Grouper - “Dragging a Dead Deer Up a Hill” Review
Grouper . Dragging a Dead Deer Up a Hill . 2008. 4 stars .
As soon as you get past the disturbing cover art and awkward title, you’ll find that Grouper’s latest album is a stunning gem, with some of the most soothing vocal harmonies you’ll hear this year. Centered on the soft, calming performance of Elizabeth Harris, Grouper’s melodies seem to defy gravity, floating over dark reverb and ambient loops. The vocal tracks are kept distant in the mix, sounding like an ethereal spirit, while gliding drones and gentle acoustic guitars move dreamily along.
While the lyrics remain cryptic under the hazy instrumentation, there is a strong feeling a peace throughout these songs, moving you into a deep and relaxed psychedelic state. The psych-folk aesthetic here is presented with serene clarity that shines through the album’s entirety, making this a unified experience rather than a collection of distinctive songs. Certainly there is a sense of sameness that runs through Dragging a Dead Deer , but its general lack of variety mostly reinforces the pleasant, hypnotic tones being developed here, immersing you in their warm glow. For its delicacy and meditative power, Grouper’s work here stands among 2008’s greatest surprises and will be sure to please fans of post-rock acts like Gregor Samsa and My Bloody Valentine. Recommended.
July 9th, 2008 at 10:45 am
Sound interesting, I’ll try to check this album.
And thanks for leaving a comment.
July 9th, 2008 at 11:00 am
No problem man. I’ve been reading your blog for a while now and have been meaning to comment for a while. Very dark and obscure stuff yet rewarding and challenging as well. Keep up the good work.
July 10th, 2008 at 11:04 am
Love Grouper. Never would have heard of her without this post, and she’s from around where I live too, Oakland, CA, which makes the find that much sweeter. Thanks for the sweet blog. Check out mine: http://zxxzooz.blogspot.com/.
July 10th, 2008 at 9:53 pm
Good to hear that you’re enjoying what I’m writing about. I like sharing unusual or obscure things that would otherwise go unnoticed, and your input on what music appears on this blog is always appreciated.