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North Carolina folk trio The Avett Brothers, set to perform a sold out show on April 20 at the West Virgina University Creative Arts Center, released their sixth studio album, "I and Love and You" in 2009 with a bit of a twist.
Their most recent effort was the major label debut under Sony/BMG/Columbia, a huge leap in the mainstream direction. The diversely creative alt-country trio is infamous for previously self-releasing and self-promoting albums.
Dedicated, longtime fans and many critics were skeptical of the transition from small North Carolina indie label Ramseur to the polished and commercially produced release that ultimately put the Brothers on the map.
After debuting at No.16 on the Billboard Top 200 and a brilliant Grammy performance alongside Bob Dylan and Mumford and Sons, the Brothers reintroduced the nation to folk with "I and Love and You," and brought Americana to the forefront of alternative.
"I and Love and You" held onto the lyrical charm, instrumental beauty and bluegrass roots The Avett Brothers have established in past albums such as "Emotionalism" and "Mignonette." This effort undeniably crafted a more clean and refined, radio friendly theme in contrast to previous albums such as "Carolina Jubilee," which utilized country, punk and bluegrass influences collectively.
While typically fostering a sound rough around the edges, the Brothers' ability to craft diversity between albums has allowed them to maintain their individuality and fervent stage presence even in their mainstream debut.
The infectious first track, sharing a name with the album's title, is a gorgeous five-minute piano melody that seamlessly leads into the albums next track "January Wedding," a soft string track that chronicles the beauty of falling in love.
Much of the first half of this album showcases a softer and more polished sound than Avett fans may be accustomed to. However, their staple of bold, lyrical storytelling can be found in key tracks like "Ten Thousand Words" and "The Perfect Space," a universally relatable track about the fears and hopes of changing and maturing, where Scott Avett wails his hopes for being loved for the man he's become, not the man that he was.
"Laundry Room" finds eloquent balance between superb song writing and well-rehearsed alt-folk instrumentals before spending its last 45 seconds in a fantastic bluegrass breakdown. Maintaining an overall optimistic feel, the album offers the feel-good, and more Avett-esque "Tin Man" track towards the end of the album before leading into the cheerful tune, "Slight Figure of Speech."
Whether "I and Love and You" is your first Avett album or another gem to add to your collection, their mesmerizing tunes and genuine talent shine through from all angles. "I and Love and You" can be purchased on iTunes for $9 and is available in stores.