Some albums are best enjoyed in a cozy environment with enough time for one straight-through listen. Woodpigeon’s third album, Die Stadt Muzikanten is a clear fit for this category.
With its warm, almost homesick feeling, Woodpigeon combines a subtly layered musicality with simple and upfront folk sensibilities. Group mastermind Mark Hamilton’s voice and creative vision definitely qualify him as Canada’s answer to Sufjan Stevens. “Woodpigeon vs. Eagleowl (Strength in Numbers)” is the most obvious proof of this, but despite echoes of Stevens’ work, Die Stadt Muzikanten is entirely unique and special.
The album’s 16 tracks clock in at over 70 minutes—it’s long, to say the least, but for once it’s a good thing. The tracks intertwine perfectly, even though the album appears to have no lyrical theme. Stand-out track “Spirehouse” is soft and nostalgic, while the indie-pop “My Denial in Argyle” should be quite accessible for music fans new to Woodpigeon’s work.
Overall, Woodpigeon has made good on their folksy roots with Die Stadt Muzikanten, though music lovers of almost any genre will find this an enjoyable album.—Ryan Kelpin
VVVV
Woodpigeon plays the Drake on Thursday, February 11 at 8 p.m.
