The Deep Dark Woods: Winter Hours (2009)

New Wax


In a year with its share of notable album releases, Feb. 17 marks yet another particularly momentous day, so I'm going to do my best to delve into a few of them. First on the docket is The Deep Dark Woods' new album Winter Hours. The Saskatchewan alt. country group's third full-length trades in some of their dark grit for a more nostalgic sound. Winter Hours revolves around reminiscence and regret. Take, for instance, the album's gem "All The Money I Had Is Gone" with its road-weary lyrics and pedal steel guitar. Lead singer Ryan Boldt's low drawl sounds fatigued set against the higher-pitched background vocals. While the song's down-and-out vibe pervades Winter Hours, it's never in the vein of woe-is-me. The emotions it stirs seem more akin to an old man on his deathbed slipping away in quiet acceptance. Instrumentally, Winter Hours remains loose and organic throughout, like an outtake from a touring country band's bare-bones midnight session in the back of a beat-up tour bus. Winter Hours is a subtle album sure to reveal layers of subtle genius after each repeat listen. A must-have album for fans of alt. country/Americana fare. -- Capt. Obvious

Listen:
MP3: The Deep Dark Woods - All The Money I Had Is Gone

Tags: The Deep Dark Woods, Winter Hours, Review