Conor Oberst and the Mystic Valley Band Outer South Rating: 3.2 Label: Merge Release: May 5, 2009

Conor Oberst has always rode a fine line as far as acclaim came. Some flip flopped, some stuck it through and others never got it.

I was one who was excited for the new album. What a mistake. This is his 2nd release with the Mystic Valley Band. The first non-bright eyes album was the expected transition after his search for Cassadaga’ but this one leaves me lost.

This new album throws away almost everything that was still comfortable in the last album. The opener is so pathetic and it never picks up. Who the fuck is the other singer? Why are there multiple people I don’t know or care to listen to. (except for Bloodlines….) The tracks sound like they were shitty New Pornographers or Golden Smog songs. Conor Oberst and the Mystic Valley Band is Not an indie supergroup.

There is also never a need to have someone else sing a song off your last album. This sounded like Conor got lazy and went and jammed with a bunch of hippies who all listen to the same 70’s rock.

I’ve come up with a listenable Ep… I suggest everyone just get these songs and forgo the rest of the album.

Inner North Ep (Selections off Outter South)

1. White Shoes
An excellent song that invokes that charm, defeat, and hope Bright Eyes nailed so well.
2. Roosevelt Room
Political reminiscence of Desaparecidos rocking and getting that Kasher-esque snarl. I’ve always liked this version of Conor, it’s a shame he doesn’t use it more often.
3. Bloodline
A nice way to slow things down and the only good non-Conor song.

That about does it… uh wait is three songs even enough to have an Ep? More like a single. Oh what is up with Nikorette? Is he trying to be all Jeff Tweedy, like “I quit smoking now recording is a breeze!” The riff is lame, and it seems like they’re trying really hard. How long did it take to make that guitar sound so effortless?

This made me think of Ryan Adams as well, with his hodgepodge of albums over the last few years. Is it all just a cycle some artists go through?

I guess dementia isn’t treating you too good Conor…

No one always hits a grand slam. Hopefully the next one will hit a better note with me.

Written by: Bill Boguski on May 6th, 2009 | Filed under Music Reviews