Swing Low Sweet Anthem

Thus far this decade, there seems to be an almost unlimited amount of folk music being released every month. At times, it is difficult to differentiate between artists, as many songs sound increasingly uniform, with the small exception of the lyrics. However, there are a select few bands who have distinguishing characteristics that allow them to stick out from the homogenous background of their peers. The Low Anthem of Providence, RI, is one such example, as frontman Ben Knox Miller's distinct, raspy vocals are beautifully unmistakable.

"Smart Flesh", the 4th album from The Low Anthem, begins with the elegant "Ghost Woman Blues". This track is a delicate weave of piano, harmonizing vocals, clarinet, and Miller's dulcet delivery. My first listen to "Ghost Woman Blues" immediately reminded me of "The Bear" off of My Morning Jacket's "Acoustic Citsuoca", as they are both reserved ballads that just pull you in with their quiet splendor. Next up is "Apothecary Love", a wistful ditty that sways along with pedal steel and harmonica to give it a pleasant country vibe. The tempo picks up, albeit briefly, on "Boeing 737". This fuzzy rocker references "Man on Wire" subject Philippe Petit and the 9/11 attacks on the World Trade Center, and is far more forceful and loud than any other track on the album. As soon as the raw punch of "Boeing 737" fades, "Smart Flesh" slows down to a mix of morose lyrics and passive accompaniment for the remainder of the album.

The first half of "Smart Flesh" is filled with seductively gripping ballads and sonorous instrumentals, but the last half seems to bog down a bit much and becomes somewhat depressing. The Low Anthem has a vivid sound that is capable of subtly embracing the listener with their graceful music and Miller's engaging voice. And though exemplified but once on this album, they also have the ability to make a damn good rock song. However, to me, it appears "Smart Flesh" came out swinging with strengths, then turned and slowly walked away from the ring with serene yet non-descript offerings. On "Love and Altar", Ben Knox Miller opines, "To love is to play, lay your wealth upon the altar". I sincerely hope the Low Anthem put those words to practice on their next album, because the results just may be divine.