Album Details

• Artist: Brown Shoe
• Album: The Gift Horse
• Label: Independent
• Year of Release: 2011
• ME Rating:
• Reviewed by: solitaryman on 2011-10-12

Despite what seems like a great length between albums, I haven't had a chance to lose track of Brown Shoe, a band I consider to be at the forefront of indie music near and far. Previous albums Vanity and Jackelope have been constant shows on my playlists, their subtle combination of pulsing pop and atmospheric rock very much addictive. Thankfully, The Gift Horse has arrived to satisfy my craving for the next installment in this fantastic band's musical journey.

A little bit of backround goes a distance to help one realize just how improved they manage to sound from album to album, and this is no exception. A little bit more in the way of backround, and you notice that the emotional depth of The Gift Horse isn't just posturing; there's a common but impacting tale being told in random pieces of a strained relationship. It reflects so well with Brown Shoe's breezy, ethereal sound that I would risk the opinion that The Gift Horse is their best offering yet. The tracks merge together and are weaved in a tapestry that, while leaving room for stand-outs (for instance, the expert pop sensibilities of "Colt Rider", the moving "Diving Bell", the wonderfully written and emotionally charged "Sick Man", the stirring and inspirational "The Run"), is ultimately a cohesive collection of songs that deserve and demand to be heard from first to last.

My prior reviews do plenty to explain the sound, the comparisons, and for the most part how strongly I feel about Brown Shoe and their efforts up until this point. On The Gift Horse, they have found just the right thematic element to meld their practiced sound with, and in the process created an album's worth of emotional peaks and valleys. It's a wonderful experience, and one that I hope anyone who comes across this review takes a chance on. There just aren't enough bands with the skill and willingness to use it honestly like Brown Shoe have consistently shown themselves to be. My hat's off to you, fellas, on this outstanding album. 

User Reviews and Comments

on 2011-10-12 hstisgod Said:

Damn, i didn't even recognized the name, these guys were an IOTY contestant in 08!!!! They've really matured. Nice gem sir Sellers....I am streaming away, third song and the rating speaks for itself.
Rating: 9/10

on 2011-10-12 SolitaryMan Said:

There's so much more to be said about this album, but I wanted to keep my review short and sweet. Lyrically speaking, there are some memorable moments to be found on the likes of "Diving Bell", "Sick Man", and "The Run". All across the album, actually. I will consider it an affront to the very nature of Music Emissions if nobody here checks this band out. They are the epitome of independent ambition and independent accomplishment.
Rating: 10/10