Combining two great musical forces from different generations can have disastrous results.  David Byrne & Fatboy Slim.  Billy Corgan & Ric Ocasek.  Or it can be a welcome surprise:  Them Crooked Vultures.  The new Decemberists falls into the latter category.  The album is produced by Peter Buck of REM, which is a perfect match.  Buck’s signature restrained twang is an effective compliment to Colin Meloy’s tendency to wander with his lofty melodies.  Buck’s influence is subtle and not overwhelming.  It’s still a Decemberists album. It’s also one of their best.

1. The Island (The Crane Wife)

2. Los Angeles, I’m Yours (Her Majesty The Decemberists)

3. O Valencia! (The Crane Wife)

4. We Both Go Down Together (Picaresque)

5. Cocoon (Castaways and Cutouts)

6. Perfect Crime #2 (The Crane Wife)

7. July, July! (Castaways and Cutouts)

8. The Crane Wife #3 (The Crane Wife)

9. Pt. I/Pt. II/Pt. III/Pt. IV/Pt. V (The Tain EP)

10. The Rake Song (Hazards of Love)

11. Valerie Plame (Always the Bridesmaid EP)

Buy The Decemberists new album, The King Is Dead…now!!!  (only $3.99 for a limited time)