The Decemberists :: Picaresque

This album caught me immediately when I heard it. The lead singer Colin Meloy has a distinctive voice (there is a definite Morrissey influence) and an art for story telling. Each songs has a story about sailors, pirates, child princes, and sports heros. Even the slow songs like “Eli, the Barrowboy” are sincerely haunting and atmospheric. But quite a few of the songs are rollicking and upbeat. Overall, a very solid album and a worthwhile listen.