Band Of Horses - Acoustic At The Ryman

By Eve Cheesmur

Released February 7th, 2014 - Rhythmethod

Formed in Seattle in 2004, Grammy nominated Band of Horses' are an eclectic taste to the ears.

I watched them live at Laneway in Auckland, and they carried a real energy and solidarity to their performance. The plaid shirts, beards and lighting all added to the experience. I've also purchased all their albums 'Everything All the Time', 'Cease To Begin','Infinite Arms' and 'Mirage Rock'. As most albums go, there are hits and misses in there but overall, I find them enjoyable to listen to if I'm feeling mildly melancholic.

'Acoustic At The Ryman' takes the hits from a range of albums, and Band of Horses performs them live. What can I say, the title of this album says it all.....with acoustic being the operative word. There is no percussion throughout the album, and I hate to say it, but this is what makes majority of Band of Horses' tracks a success. The ride of haunting melodies sung by Ben Bridwell, in conjunction with interrupting, edgy drums.

I felt as though the acoustic performances do not do Band of Horses any favours. However, it's interesting to listen to alternative renditions of some of their hits, and could be great research if you were planning a funeral.

2/5