The Argonaut

Issue date: 12/6/07 Section: Entertainment

2 Of Montreal's "Hissing Fauna, Are You The Destroyer?" - Upbeat, cheerful, and ultimately depressing, Of Montreal's 2007 long-player provides all the weird cleverness that the band is known for, pairing fast-paced, happy music with deep, meaningful lyrics that smack of manic depression. It's a perfect pairing; just try and forget that Outback Steakhouse jingle.



1Okkervil River's "The Stage Names" - As the cashier who rang me up when I bought this album so accurately stated, "These guys rock." Okkervil River is, indeed, one of the most intelligent, talented, and rocking bands I've ever been a fan of. "The Stage Names" is a masterpiece that ties its songs together with themes about entertainers, poets, and life on the fringes of society.

However, what really gets me about this album is the painstakingly perfect song writing, which incorporates clever allusions, twists of the tongue, and innovative poetic devices. A fantastic band for any fan of good old-fashioned rock and roll.



Just Missed The Cut:

Klaxons' "Myths of the Near Future"

Iron & Wine's "The Shepherd's Dog"

The New Pornographers' "Challengers"

Bishop Allen's "The Broken String"

St. Vincent's "Mary Me"

The National's "Boxer"

Architecture in Helsinki's "Places Like This"

Beirut's "The Flying Club Cup"

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