REVIEW: Indie foursome goes mainstream

If anyone knows of Grizzly Bear, they know that the four-piece band that originated in Brooklyn, N.Y., is considered one of the top Indie acts of current times. With the release of their previous album, “Veckatimest,” and especially the hit “Two Weeks,” Grizzly Bear shot to wide-reaching Indie fame. Watch out hipsters, we mainstreamers are coming, and you better run.

Their new album “Shields,” needless to say, is quite the stunner. With 10 tracks, a similar ambiance that their previous albums had and a punkie edge, they deliver an album that leaves no part in the Grizzly psyche un-“bear”-ed.

The band’s ability to maintain choirboy vocals over what sounds at times like an ocean ripping through amplifiers, creates a beautiful palate that keeps hitting you over the head, and in a good way. Still, in contrast to their previous albums, which have shown some impressive studio polish, “Shields” brings a little of that good-ole’ guitar grime in, like a breath of fresh air.

Then there are the acoustic tracks. Whether it’s at the forefront of the mix, or somehow snuck in and placed in the background, the acoustic guitar creates a pleasant contrast between the often pounding drums and resounding bass. All of this comes together in their song “Yet Again,” which exhibits the classic Grizzly Bear ethereal vocals and rounded guitar tone. But watch out! Don’t expect to be left unruffled at the end of the song, because they’ve lured you in with a false sense of security. The punk influence definitely shows through, making you want to scream out along with indie fury–if there is such a thing.

“Shields” is an album that I highly recommend. Not only has Grizzly Bear consistently delivered amazing and beautiful music time and time again, but they also managed to tweak their style enough so you’re getting something fresh with a similarity that feels like you’re remembering something from a lost dream.