Despite a newly inducted sonic clarity, Grizzly Bear’s Veckatimest takes the high road: This is not an album that relies on “slick” production to craft something of quality. No, while Veckatimest is undeniably better recorded than previous Grizzly Bear efforts, there’s something undeniably exciting in this frenetic indie pop.

Grizzly Bear — “Cheerleader” | download

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Claims of Veckatimest being a more accessible pop record aren’t actually wide of the mark — but don’t for a minute be detracted by the notion of accessibility. Grizzly Bear’s psych-folk tendencies really shine in the open, spacious reverberating soundscape, and rather than getting lost amongst the noise, listeners are rewarded with a clarity that’s a bit unusual for the many-layered recording here. (more…)