The self-titled album from Elvis Perkins in Dearland is a brilliant follow-up to the group's 2007 debut, Ash Wednesday. Elvis Perkins In Dearland is an absolutely charming album which explores the realm of orchestral folk, marked by rich arrangements that intricately add color and depth to Perkins's songs.

Acoustic guitar is the subtle backbone for the majority of these songs, but only to the extent that it provides a template for the rest of the band and Perkins's penetrating voice, which has continued to develop since the last album. He has the bold tone of Rufus Wainwright, the intricate phrasing of Eef Barzelay from Clem Snide and the high-flying wail of Arcade Fire's Win Butler.

Though Ash Wednesday has some crushing songs of its own (listen to Sleep Sandwich and Good Friday ), Elvis Perkins In Dearland is a step forward in that it is melodically more expansive and reaches in more directions than its predecessor; from the hymn-like simplicity of Send My Fond Regards To Lonelyville to the clanging, clashing, dirge that is I’ll Be Arriving .

One of this album's most enduring and endearing qualities is its melodies; they are instantly familiar and yet elusive and untraceable, a tribute to Perkins's craftsmanship. The album opens almost cinematically with Shampoo . Wailing crickets, whistles, organ and plucked guitar usher us through the darkness and into the clearing as the album begins with a sharp, "Sweep up, little sweeper boy!"

Perkins has a unique way of phrasing his lines which pause and burst, as if he's reconsidering what he's about to say. At times it seems like he's distracted and then suddenly captivated and compelled to exclaim his lines. The second track Hey features a tip-toeing melody, which turns a corner to sprint out the door. It displays playful lyrical rhythms, which are exceptionally tight yet melodically nonchalant.

This is an album to be enjoyed in its entirety. Perkins sings, "Come with me, I'll take you anywhere"; listening to this graceful album, I got the sense that this was indeed possible. The third installment from Elvis Perkins In Dearland is highly awaited after we are ushered out with the aching pianos on the last track.

Recommended Tracks:
Hey
Send My Fond Regards To Lonelyville