Woodpigeon - Treasury Library Canada

5/5

Words: Tommy Jackson

Some albums are just meant to be savoured, to be enjoyed, and to be relished. Think Thom Yorke's The Eraser, think Bright Eyes' Cassadega, think Arcade Fire's Funeral, and now think Treasury Library Canada, the beautiful new album from the wonderful Woodpigeon.

As a collection of songs, Treasury Library Canada is a compelling undertaking. Each number is as gorgeous as the last, each with a quality and musicianship which is staggering in places. The strings, in particular, are breathtaking throughout the album, and complement Mark Andrew's craftsmanlike vocals perfectly.

To pick a single highlight from this album would be an impossible task, but The Hamilton Academicals, with its violin led melancholia, and the Belle And Sebastian-esque Love In The Time Of Hopscotch would both be up there.

Like all great albums, however, it is best appreciated as a whole. One after another, each of the fourteen tracks drift across the consciousness, leading you deeper and deeper into Woodpigeon's intricately crafted, delicately realised universe. By the end of this stunning collection, there is no doubt that the Canadian maestros have created something of rarely seen beauty. The world is a better place because of Woodpigeon, and long may they continue.
 
Released: 09.02.09