Track Review - The Decemberists - "Down By the Water"

After years of taking their influences from mostly British folk bands, it seems as if Colin Meloy and crew have finally decided to delve into styles that can be found a little closer to home. The band has stated that their forthcoming album, The King is Dead, would have a major R.E.M. feel to it, and if the jangly guitars on this song are any indication (the fact that R.E.M. guitarist Peter Buck is featured could help, though), they were telling the truth. Alt-country crooner Gillian Welch compliments Meloy's voice very nicely, and the addition of a Neil Young style harmonica section finds the band delving into new territory even further. While the vocals of Colin Meloy will never find The Decemberists being mistaken for any other band, this song sees them taking a promising step for the future.

Rating: 8.5

(From the forthcoming LP The King is Dead, due 1/18/2011)