Noble Beast: Andrew Bird

Andrew Bird’s latest solo release, Noble Beast, is a stunning negotiation between intricacy and simplicity. The melancholy hue to his lyrics and the introversion apparent in the album’s meticulous arrangements are countered by a melodic abandon and wit. Almost ambitious in its beauty, his lyricism unifies a palette of self-proclaimed influences: gypsy, country blues, early jazz, classical music and folk-rock. More than a mere assembly, the dense beds of looping and layering for which he is well known have been fashioned into songs with an intimate appeal and focus. The result is an album equally beguiling and soulful.