My first introduction to Okkervil River was at the unfortunately named Fun Fun Fun Fest, where they put on a blistering set late on day 1. I later found out that they had cemented themselves as one of the top Austin bands. Soon after the show, I decided to check out their most recent album, The Stage Names.
I'd consider myself a bit of an amateur critic, with a huge pop culture encyclopedia running around in my head. Well, it came as no surprise that singer Will Sheff is similar, a former critic with a clear understanding of the music and media that came before him. When I get referential, it usually comes in the form of a timely Chappelle quote (those are still timely, right?) When Sheff gets referential, he creates an album where he alludes to porn stars, Roy Orbison, Nena, and even his own work. The Stage Names is unabashed theatrics, carried by strong instrumentation, but mostly by the emotion of Sheff's voice.
His best vocal delivery in on the second track, "Unless It's Kicks," an ode to both his fans, and the concept of fandom in general, and the strongest song on the album. There aren't really any throwaway songs on the album, as they all seem to have a deeper message that can get lost if you aren't paying attention to the lyrics. "Our Life's Not a Movie, or Maybe" follows the idea that life isn't a huge production, it's simply normal, even the life of a rock star. "Savannah Smiles" is based on the tragic suicide of Savannah, a porn star from the mid-90s, told from an outsider's perspective.
Mostly on the strength of their live performances, Okkervil River has cemented itself as the best Austin band since Spoon, and The Stage Names is their first step into getting national attention. Being located in their home base will allow me plenty of opportunity to watch this band grow, something I'm looking forward to for the next few years.
Essential tracks: "Unless It's Kicks", "Our Life's Not A Movie, Or Maybe", "Girl in Port"
"Unless It's Kicks"
"Our Life's Not A Movie, Or Maybe"
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