Megafaun

iTunes Review

Megafaun continues a remarkable run of albums with its fourth release in as many years. The trio of multi-instrumentalists (guitars, banjo, harmonica, drums, piano, and more) again covers dusty and dynamic sonic territory, but there’s a sharper focus on composition and song structure than on previous releases. With the notable exception of “Serene Return,” this is their least experimental-sounding effort so far, yet also the most diverse. Sprawling, textured jams (“Get Right”) are set next to hypnotic, soulful ballads (“Hope You Know,” “Kill the Horns”), and melodic country rock infused with passages of sublime strangeness (“Second Friend,” “Resurrection,” “State/Meant,” and the beautiful “Everything,” featuring vocals by Frazey Ford). There are surprises, such as the jazzy backwoods horns on “Isadora,” but overall these 14 tracks follow more straightforward (at least for Megafaun) songwriting paths. In satisfying its impulses for both exploration and accessibility, Megafaun delivers a rich and rewarding release.