Shearwater “Winged Life”

(Misra)  I should probably have a hipster’s instinct to pretend I’ve actually heard of this newly reissued 2004 release by a band that at time were the main dudes in Okkervil River. But I’ll keep it real and admit I never heard of it, which puts me in the envious position of listening to it with fresh ears. These low key, yet kinda epic, musical story songs are rich and lush and pretty, but without any poppy emotional lightness (it all seems important and sincere). But pop choruses and catchiness are no strangers here, even during the sad songs. I’m glad to be a birdwatcher of this winged creature, and I’m doubly glad that this specimen did not go extinct!