Anathallo is one of those cacophonous ensemble bands that no one can get enough of these days. Using several different sounds from a variety of changing members, Anathallo hails from Michigan but currently resides in Chicago, Illinois.
Ever since I heard the awe inspiring Sufjan Stevens I had been looking for any artist comparable to both his vocal quality and string work. And with Anathallo’s last album, Floating World, I found just that. They come out with a new album, Canopy Glow, this Wednesday and I couldn’t think of a better holiday gift. “The River” is by far the highlight of the album with piano, bells, harmonies, and boy-girl vocals that will make your head spin and your body tingle.
Anathallo seems to have altered their sound a bit on this album, refining the songs to less blips and bleeps and more to vibrant, full-sounding orchestral pop. I’m ok with Anathallo changing their sound a bit – while I love every song on Floating World they are all very similar and Canopy Glow undoes this trend. Bottom line: I highly recommend both albums. Here are some mp3’s for your listening pleasure:
The River (MP3)
Noni’s Field (MP3)
As a bonus, my personal favorite from Floating World: (MP3)