Father John Misty takes a different route
Father John Misty clearly has a voice of his own, especially in his new album Chlöe and the Next 20th Century. Previously the drummer for Fleet Foxes, his solo works link to folk archetypes with artists such as Nick Drake and Pete Seeger. His unique lyrics tend to be most noteworthy, specifically in the album Fear Fun. Throughout his various works, his voice almost sounds like he is quite literally preaching to the choir, as his name Father John Misty might suggest.
The album Chlöe and the Next 20th Century, released April 8th, incorporates jazz instrumentals while also sprinkling in some of his more notary folk themes. It’ll most likely take a couple of listens for its likeability to kick in, especially for listeners more well acquainted with his rugged bohemian rock persona.
The album almost encapsulates little stories within it, starting with “Chlöe” and ending with “The Next 20th Century,” as the album name alludes to. A particular song that plays into this theme is “We Could Be Strangers.” The song almost picks up themes often found in Film Noir and makes them darker than they already were. The lyrics, not particularly in straight succession “As they lay there bleeding on the freeway..We could be strangers for one night longer…Cause no one’s really better off alone” showcase this phenomenon clearly.
The second song on the track, “Goodbye Mr. Blue” implements fingerpicking style alongside country-folk themes to create the perfect song for when you’re missing a long-lost lover. “Kiss Me (I Loved You)” is dark, yet sophisticated. The piano is slow and pairs well with Father John Misty’s elongated voice. “(Everything But) Her Love” feels like it follows a carnival beat, swaying from a higher octave to a lower one. Dark undertones can be heard in the instrumentals, while Father John Misty’s voice almost feels as if it’s yearning for more. “Buddy Rendezvous” once again takes on more jazzy tones; it pairs well with a sullen drink at the bar.
Father John Misty’s Chlöe and the Next 20th Century is a listen that takes a bit of getting used to, especially for seasoned Misty listeners. Once settled in, the beauty really opens wide, specifically for those more inclined towards darker undertones.
Leave a Comment