Andrew Bird

Add Date: January 20

Artist: Andrew Bird

Album: Noble Beast

Label: Fat Possum

Genre: Rock, folk pop

Comments: Another excellent effort from songwriter/violinist/guitarist/whistler extraordinaire Andrew Bird. On this follow-up to 2007's deservedly-lauded Armchair Apocrypha, Bird continues to write excellent pop songs, strung together by introspective lyrics, violin, a host of other instruments, and his seemingly unparalleled ability to whistle a tune. Though Noble Beast didn't match up to Armchair Apocrypha on the first couple of spins, other reviewers who have spent more time with the record admit that it takes a few listens to grow on you. I'll take their word for it, as I did enjoy it more the second time through. In the meantime, we can all appreciate the excellent songs contained therein; my favorites were "Fitz and the Dizzyspells" and "Oh No."

Also, Andrew Bird and Loney Dear are playing at the National in Richmond on Monday, February 2. More information can be found at the venue's web site.