A Winter Of Mixed Drinks the third LP from Scotland’s Frightened Rabbit has finally hit US shelves. It easily qualified for my most anticipated album of 2010 and I am delighted to report the Selkirk fellas have changed the formula just enough to suggest curiosity while maintaining the qualities that make them distinct and addictive.
Wisely deciding to push his lyrical dexterity beyond the realm of “break up” songs Scott focused more on the emotions involved with vulnerability and strength involved in being alone. The result being an album that leans more toward resurrection than heart ache. Scott’s yelpy croon is as fine as ever and he still turns a phrase the likes of which you’d be likely to hear from any sage barstool philosopher; at times jovial and playful at others reflective and raw. On “The Loneliness & The Scream” he puts words to those moments when you anxiously need someone, anyone to acknowledge your existence then brings in a rondo of howling backup vocals to drive home the urgency of those moments. It is just one of many powerfully orchestrated moments on the album.
While Scott’s range of perspective has evolved so to has the rest of the group’s instrumental adeptness. Grant’s percussion is still the core of the group’s energy. Pushing and pulsing through tracks like the album opener “Things” with the verve you heard on the last two albums. However, this time through when the arrangement dictates more restraint his drumming holds more confidence and intention. The arrangements as a whole suggest the increase in touring has made them more ambitious. Considering they were a pretty ambitious group to start with, the new extremes make for a satiating and rich listening experience. The intense build at the start of “Skip The Youth” which then trips into the pared down plodding bass/piano lead only to build again slowly with layered dreamy guitars and fuzzy drums exemplifies the success of their evolution. The entire album is a testimony to a group’s ability to take chances, explore and yet remain true to their essential sound.
The fellas are set for some SXSW shenanigans then to Europe then finally back to the US to tour properly in support of A Winter Of Mixed Drinks (Philly date April 30th at The Church). As great as they may be on record nothing, NOTHING compares to their live show. So, buy the album, buy your ticket and join the ranks of dedicated Frabbiteers.