The Dandelion War

We Were Always Loyal To Lost Causes

Written by: DR on 10/02/2013 19:52:54

Deep Elm Records has become as much a mark of quality as it is a record label in recent years. Especially when it comes to post-rock, you know any release that has their name on it is going to be good, such is the plethora of talent on their roster that we have become accustomed to. One record released by Deep Elm that received a lot of acclaim last year is The Dandelion War's sophomore album "We Were Always Loyal To Lost Causes", which is not only post-rock done well, but a great example of how to seamlessly combine elements of the genre with elements of indie music.

Essentially, what The Dandelion War have done is take the song-structures of post-rock - the long runtimes, spacious soundscapes and brooding atmospheres - and immaculately sewn in intimate and affecting vocals that land somewhere between Chris Martin (Coldplay) and Jonsi (Sigur Ros). The result is epic, and not in the typical way in which 'epic' has practically become synonymous for 'loud'. Though TDW can certainly make a noise when they want to, the great moments they create are more subtle than aggressive. The great moments - the moments that really capture you - are at the end of their slow, measured build ups that gather momentum by adding layers of pianos, guitars, effects and electronic elements within their soundscapes, ultimately culminating in sweeping crescendos. "We Were Always Loyal To Lost Causes" flows together so seamlessly that it's difficult to select stand out songs, but the likes of "A Different Heav'n" and "The Devil's Black Wool", in particular, are undeniably special efforts.

Overall, it's not hard to understand why the acclaim has been rolling in for The Dandelion War and this record. In combining influences from post-rock and indie, The Dandelion War haven't so much settled on a middle ground as they have stabbed their flag into the land and made it their own.

8

Download: A Different Heav'n, The Devil's Black Wool
For The Fans of: Sigur Ros, Blueneck, I Am Sonic Rain
Listen: Bandcamp

Release Date 12.09.2012
Deep Elm Records

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