Bon Iver
For Emma, Forever Ago
2008

It's not surprising that this album is creepy and lonesome. Justin Vernon, a.k.a. Bon Iver (intentionally misspelled French for "good winter") recorded it in a remote cabin in Northern Wisconsin in the middle of winter, where he retreated for a period of solitude. He didn't intend to make an album, but faced with nothing else to do other than haul firewood and hunt deer, that's what he did.

The album is sparse and sad, focusing on heartbreak. Vernon sings in a high-pitched warble, and backs himself with guitars, the occasional drum kit, and self-harmony. The whole thing kind of reminds me of Iron & Wine meets Devendra Banhardt, but with more emotional vocals than either of those acts, and with very layered, orchestral production (which is amazing considering how and where it was recorded).

For the past week or so, I've been listening to this album more than any other. The first four tracks really suck you into the rest of the record. I like it quite a bit.

If you download one song, download: "Skinny Love"

Note: If you live near Duluth, Bon Iver is playing the Kirby Rafters on April 14.