EDITORS’ NOTES

After four diverse and successful albums at the helm of Noah & The Whale, Charlie Fink breaks for solo terrain. It’s a hugely ambitious first foray, a concept album of songs also incorporated into a theater production (starring Fink himself). Fortunately, his ambition is matched by the quality and care of execution. Fink suits the role of troubled, country-tinged folk troubadour. Lyrically, the rich storytelling feels Dylanesque (particularly on the exquisite “Firecracker” and “The Howl”), and songs like “The End of the Legendary Hearts” showcase that natural way Fink has with a beautiful, melodic chorus.