Music

"I Love You, Honeybear" - Father John Misty [Official Full Album Stream + Zumic Review]

Chris Tart

by Chris Tart

Published February 13, 2015

Joshua Tillman released seven albums before unleashing his alter-ego Father John Misty to the world. The former Fleet Foxes member has been wowing us for the past three years with his soulful blend of indie folk.

I Love You, Honeybear follows Father John Misty's 2012 Sub Pop debut Fear Fun, and continues to build upon that momentum. His eclectic blend of all-things-Americana is easy to vibe to, and this record may be his best effort yet.

Lyrically speaking, this may be the most unique album you've heard in a long time. As demonstrated on "Nothing Good Ever Happens At The Goddamn Thirsty Crow," Tillman has a knack for infusing a little humor in his mostly-serious content. "I know it's hard to believe the good-hearted woman could have a body that'd make your daddy cry / Why the long face, jerkoff? Your chance has been taken / Good one / You may think like an animal / If you try that cat-and-mouse shit, you'll get bitten / Keep moving." It isn't every day that a folk song contains the word "jerkoff," but go ahead and click track six if you'd like to experience that unicorn for yourself.

"Bored In The USA" has a way with words as well: "Save me, white Jesus / Bored in the USA / Oh, they gave me a useless education / And a subprime loan / On a craftsman home / Keep my prescriptions filled / And now I can't get off / But I can kind of deal / Oh, with being bored in the USA." The serious undertones are told with a bit of comedy, complete with a laugh & clap track that would have Larry David envious.

Words aren't the only way Father John Misty will win you over on this album. "True Affection" sees Tillman venture in to electronica, which may sound a tad scary on paper. But just like Ben Gibbard and Jim James before him, Tillman rises to the occasion, delivering a song that is captivating and shows his versatility.

"The Ideal Husband" rocks out a little more than most songs on the album. With its angsty, almost punky, vibe it is a definite standout track. Between the electronica foray, the fuzzy-guitar-tone solo on this one, and the more delicate chamber pop, I Love You, Honeybear is a modern masterpiece.

Listen to the official Spotify stream above, and feel free to comment with your opinion of the album.

I Love You, Honeybear is available on Amazon (Vinyl, CD, MP3) and iTunes.

For Father John Misty's latest music, news, and tour dates, check out his Zumic artist page.

1
1294
artists
Father John Misty
genres
Alt Country Americana Folk Folk Rock Indie Indie Folk Singer-Songwriter
сomments
Send Feedback
Registration and login will only work if you allow cookies. Please check your settings and try again.

OK