Must-see gig: Fleet Foxes at Wolverhampton Civic
When this group of heavily-whiskered American folksters broke through in 2008 with debut EP Sun Giant and their eponymous first album, it seemed that, although gathering much critical acclaim and a loyal fanbase, they were in danger of taking up residency on Radio 2 and late night C4 culture programmes.
When this group of heavily-whiskered American folksters broke through in 2008 with debut EP Sun Giant and their eponymous first album, it seemed that, although gathering much critical acclaim and a loyal fanbase, they were in danger of taking up residency on Radio 2 and late night C4 culture programmes.
The spectre of being labelled as 'dadrock' was looming.
Happily, three years on, it's a different story for Fleet Foxes, who have bridged the gap between old-time Americana and modern-day festivals, thanks to lead singer 25-year-old Robin Pecknold's impeccable songwriting, plenty of touring and indie kids becoming more receptive to four-part vocal harmonies and knitwear.
After all, if Sub Pop – the label that brought the world Nirvana – signed them, they must be doing something right to encourage underground appeal.
But, where Fleet Foxes differ from UK folkies – such as Mumford or Noah and the Whale – is that their music is more likely to reference Stephen Stills than Steeleye Span. And, importantly, they do this while creating something entirely new.
As with their debut album, the band's new release, Helplessness Blues, calls to mind technicolor footage of Glastonbury and Woodstock shot in Super 8, warm summer days, harsh winters and camp fires. But it's not just a trip into 60s nostalgia – the songs of Fleet Foxes will be ringing in our ears for many years to come.
Fleet Foxes play Wolverhampton Civic Hall, on Thursday, June 23. Tickets cost £21.50 plus fees. Visit www.wolvescivic.co.uk or call 0870 320 7000
Chris Davies
