May 3, 2011
Sub Pop
2xLP
Helplessness Blues is the rare record that can be appreciated and honoured by those on either side of a widening generational gap. To those who grew up with the sounds of Laurel Canyon's empyrean harmonies and sun-drenched strings, it will sound like home. To the children of the aforementioned, it sounds like a relatable voice, one relaying the pressures of a world in constant flux in soul-stirring tenor. The former can see the gold-hued optimism of the '60s, the latter the cold anxiety of the '10s. When frontman Robin Pecknold sings, on the albums opening track,
he's asking both sides of the divide. To both parties, or anyone with ears, Helplessness Blues is one of the all-time 'pretty albums,' and a top tier #coffeealbum.