The Decemberists - The Hazards Of Love
One of my all-time fav bands came 'round in '09 with a different direction from their previous albums (that still hold up extremely well - classics anyone?). Exit days of literary wit & bookworm charm, enter the days of grandiose prog rock meant for the stage. Portland proud, The Decemberists returned with Hazards - their rather large & successful attempt at a full stage musical/metal rock opera. (on paper this album screams cheese, but I promise it's worth every second)
Loud, sprawling, violent, epic, lurching, - all easily describe Hazards which place characters against each other as star crossed lovers (the shape-shifting) William & Margaret battle villains and an evil queen who attempt to destroy all things love. Lead singer Colin Meloy sings multiple parts & guests pitch in to round out the cast of flawed characters. On Hazards, Meloy ultimately tackles some serious topics: marriage, parenthood, abduction & even the death of children.
An album that's slightly flawed due to it's running time (58+ minutes) ironically ends perfect. With one of the most beautiful & graceful finishes to a concept album ever, Meloy flawlessly paints a glorious picture of a beach wedding that ends not so beautiful. Check out these brush strokes:
So let's be married here today these rushing waves to bare our witness,
And we will lye like river stones rolling only where it takes us.
Oh Margaret the lapping waves are licking quietly at our ankles
Another bow another breath this brilliant chill's come for the shackle.
Ahh,..just be ready for tears. Hazards should quite possibly be enjoyed from start to finish, over-sized headphones optional. The record itself will only get better with time as has the band.
Standout track - #17, The Hazards Of Love 4 (The Drowned)
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