Vetiver

Add Date: February 10

Artist: Vetiver

Album: Tight Knit

Label: Sub Pop

Genre: Indie folk

Comments: Vetiver is a perennial grass of the Poaceae family, typically native to India, that decided to cross over into the musical world and record an album.  Oops.  This Vetiver is as fine a folk album I've heard this year (mind you, it's only February).  Track 1 is a light blend of nostalgia and Bonnie 'Prince' Billy-style folk rock, with a singer whose voice is a bit more George Harrison than Johnny Cash.  Vetiver is the musical project of singer/songwriter Andy Cabic, who frequently shares the stage with Devendra Banhart.  I can see why.  Slightly uptempo and delicate arrangements complement softer laments on this, the group's fourth album and first on Sub Pop.  Fans of the Elected or recent playlisters Little Joy will nod right along.  Check out 3, 4, or 6.