Review Summary: Craig's List finally comes through
The Freelance Whales have done something incredible with their debut record, “Weathervanes.” Formed, with the help of Craig’s List and distant, but mutual friends, the members of the odd ball quintet really shouldn’t work this well together. But they do.
The instrumentation in “Weathervanes” runs the gamut of indie, folk, and electronic influences, as the members of The Freelance Whales pool their collective musical histories in to a fascinating melange of genres. Many songs place melodic focus on banjo, an instrument that usually remains backseat to more common leads such as the guitar or a piano. This small difference makes for a fascinatingly fresh sound. Songs such as “Generator ^ First Floor,” and “The Great Estates” revel in the unique tones produced by the instrument. However the single, “Hannah” along with several other songs on the album, is driven by the oscillating arpeggios of a Korg synthesizer. The shear variety in each song is astounding, the sonic tapestry woven throughout the album is rich and creative, never ceasing to surprise and delight listeners with its whimsical melodies and unique arrangements.
Whether the folksy flow of a banjo or the playful yet driving thrum of a synth, it is the vocals that tie all of the entirety of The Freelance Whale album together so well. Perhaps most comparable to Ben Gibberd of Deathcab for Cutie and The Postal Service, the vocals on “weathervane” are quick and creative, providing more hooks than a bass pro shop. The verse of “Hannah,” especially, will be stuck in your head for weeks.
It is a shame that the The Freelance Whales were overlooked in the deluge of high profile releases in 2010. Both creative and a joy to listen to, “Weathervanes” by the Freelance Whales is most certainly worth a listen.
