Reviews (page 5 of 14)
love albums that feel like fall and this is one of em. i listened to this a lot back in 2008-2013 or so, and it holds up imo.
Already loved this album, perfect for a chill day
Saw these guys at Winnipeg Folk Fest a few years ago now, sat in the rain with my poncho and mini lawn chair with my mom and a family friend out in the fields of bird hill park, had a great time even though I was soaking wet! It stopped raining by the end of the show, and was able to dry off back at the campsite. Anyways that was a good time, and so was this album. I may have searched for some of their music back then, but never sat down with an album. Which I definitely should have sooner! Would be an even better album within a certain chill setting, maybe involving some rain or a cloudy day, next to a fire of some sort, maybe cup of tea in hand. Who knows! 8/10
Very calming and relaxing. It has a peaceful, earthy, and warm feeling that I really appreciate. The harmonies are stunning, almost hymn like and the acoustic guitar has such a natural texture that it feels as though the music was recorded in an old wooden cabin in the mountains rather than in a studio. The album feels folk inspired but also modern indie. There’s something very comforting about it, soothing but not boring, mellow but emotional. I can see how influential this sound became later on for indie folk bands in the 2010s. If I had to describe the overall feeling, it’s the perfect album for a rainy day, hot chocolate with the heater on, and the rain tapping against the window. It’s like being wrapped in a blanket next to a fireplace while it pours outside. Very calm, and beautiful. The album cover is beautiful. It captures the folky, pastoral vibe of the music, very rustic, and almost storybook like. It feels like a piece of classic art you’d find in an old European gallery, filled with tiny scenes and characters you could stare at for a long time, just like the song “The Fairy Feller’s Master Stroke” by Queen. My favourite tracks are White Winter Hymnal, Ragged Wood, Tiger Mountain Peasant Song, Quite Houses, He Doesn't Know Why, Your Protector, Meadowlarks, Blue Ridge Mountains.
such a good album cover. There’s so much to look at. The harmonies are beautiful, this album is produced and mixed to perfection. Everything sounds so atmospheric. There’s some really great moments in this album, but also some that fall flat. There were certain songs I HATED, but other songs that I added to lots of playlists. I don’t know if I’m the biggest fan of the modern folk sound so I think this is 3.5 stars
Sun It Rises: 4/10, I like the vibe of this song, it reminds me of a renessance fair WHICH WE NEED TO GO TO. White Winter Hymnal: 9/10, I love the guitar in this song and how all of the instruments fuse together, it makes me want to connect to nature more Ragged Wood: 5/10, I don't really like the start part, it's too much noise that doesn't really go well together in my brain, but after 2:50, it really slows down which I like Tiger Mountain Peasant Song: 3/10, it's giving vegan moss skipping in the grass sitting in a tree reading a political book Quiet Houses: 8/10, funky:), this is a really good feel good song that reminds me of childhood in a way made me tear up a bit, I like the little piano solo near the end He Doesn't Know Why: 3/10, sounds like 2 other of the songs in this album, like cmon dude switch it up a bit? this song is giving Joy Division mixed with hatred and love Heard Them Stirring: 8/10, Tarzan? I like the big drum and how they fade into soft singing, it reminds.me of church hymns. it also sounds like Arkells somewhat? Your Protector: 10/10, I think im floating, im speechless. it's going in the liked songs for sure. Meadowlarks: 2/10, it sounds like Clay Pigeons by Michael Cera for a bit, which is why I gave it a 2, but it's a kinda sad song which I don't quite like Blue Ridge Mountains: 4/10, changes from slow to fast too much and I overall just don't like this song Oliver James: 0/10. nope.
Felt like I was whimsying through a forest
I enjoyed this. Good chill out album
6/10
Does it feel a little "indie-folk-by-numbers" sometimes? Sure, but that's because they were the originator of a lot of that! Even if these songs aren't always the most memorable, they've got harmonies that are almost on par with those of the Beach Boys! Easily one of the prettiest indie albums there is.
i forgot a bout thus!
Food album, folky. 4/5
etheral forest trippiness
Extraordinary debut with such well developed sounds and songs.
I haven’t listened to this in a long time. Beautifully written and unique
Det var inne med stämsång å skägg vid den här tiden. Gillade det då och märker att det håller förvånansvärt bra fortfarande. White winter hymnal och your protector är i en klass för sig men även övriga spår låter sig lyssnas på utan att det gör ont. Stabila fyra solar.
Just all around good.
Cosy!
Paying attention to this reveals a lot of finely crafted melodies. It's also not produced in an overly clean fashion like some of the following folk rock of the nest decade will be.
Väldigt bra sånginsatser. Fina melodier. En fyra
Sometimes the hipsters are right about things. A perfect album for fall going into winter. Favorite track: White Winter Hymnal 3.5/5
Good, but not as good as the critics thought
very folketale-ish fits the album cover art
This was so good!
The pacific northwest has birthed a few bands that capture exactly what it's like to live there. Mellow, with a sharp and dark undertone.
Very relaxing. Good stuff
I loved this album in highschool so I have a pretty soft spot for it. I think it felt very exciting in the time it came out, but I also think it has kept itself pretty firmly dated. I enjoy this album most when it uses negative space, I think Oliver James rocks
Vraiment cool ! Vibe chill, pop rock entrainante, des morceaux un peu plus calmes aussi
listened to again really wonderful
The Fleet Foxes' album of the same name features very relaxed folk pop, enriched in places by nice vocal arrangements. A good example of this is “White Winter Hymnal,” which makes it sound a bit like a Christmas carol to me. I was already familiar with “Tiger Mountain Peasant Song,” but I didn't know who wrote it. Otherwise, I like the Johnny Cash vibe in “Your Protector.” Fleet Foxes isn't my everyday kind of music, but today it was just right.
Found out I already knew one of their songs. Sounds pretty and good for autumn. Glad I found this one!
love this album! Its so calming and sweet
Like Arcade Fire meets the Moody Blues meets a church choir. Nice suprise
Lo escuche anoche y ahora no lo recuerdo, pero me gusto. Gustó de volver a escucharlo con tranquilidad. Aurally me resulto interesante.
Very nice, listened twice, atmospheric and soothing.
This album really surprised me, I really enjoyed it
Among my current faves. Amazing music. Nice to see it here.
awesome album. unknowingly knew a lot of the songs already. throwback to college for me.
I like what they've done here, lovely harmonies and generally just a nice ambiance they've created 3.7?
This kind of folk music definitely oversaturated the market for awhile and I was initially inclined to give it a 3. However I do think the songs are well thought out, beautifully sung, and the album has a cohesive feel overall without each song sounding the same. So despite the fact that I'm personally still "over" this music, I gave it a 4 as it's not their fault everyone and their mother decided on the same style at the same time.
Takes me back to being 26 and having no idea what I truly liked. This is not my style, but I have a soft spot for this album and its harmonies.
(4/5) ["7.5/10"] Favourite song: White Winter Hymanal. Least favourite: Tiger Mountain Peasant Song.
Liked this. High production values. Good harmonies. It works. Digital folk.
Man, this album was pretty good. Fleet Foxes was always one of those bands that I wanted to get around to, and I'm glad I finally have now. I love a good harmony and electric/acoustic stringed instruments playing off each other is a welcome aspect (although I wish there was more!). I like the nature-themed lyrics, they're a nice change of pace from a lot of other music I've listened to lately. I really felt like I was in a snowy forest or mountainous landscape during my listen. I wish the album kept up the pace and tone it set in the first few songs; I don't know why but I felt really excited about it at first then things just got... samey? really quickly. I think this is an album that needs several listens to really digest each song and find each one's strengths. Standouts were "Sun It Rises" "White Winter Hymnal" All in all, pretty good! It's a slower paced contemplative piece. I put a few songs on a playlist and would listen again. Fleet Foxes gets a solid 4, a little more variety throughout, and maybe change up the echoey vocals every now and then, and this would be an easy 5.
Aged well
Ooh we like this album. Classic Fleet Foxes. White Winter Hymnal is an excellent song, but so are many others on here. Both soothing and atmospheric.
This was so nostalgic. It just had that quintessential circa 2010 indie folk feel and I was all about it.
This album threw me back to a version of myself that I forgot. A version of me that was surrounded by different people, loved different things, experienced so much music so presently. It was quite nice, and in some ways painful. But I love it for that. Music that made me feel.
Warm, glowing, and kind of ancient sounding? A beautiful little world, just 39 minutes wide. Excellent debut for a band I somehow missed. Spins: 2 Playlist Additions - Sun It Rises - White Winter Hymnal - Ragged Wood - Blue Ridge Mountains
A few months ago I experienced the strongest feelings of homesickness I've felt since moving to Argentina. And it was triggered by a Fleet Foxes song. I don't feel homesick very often so these guys must have captured something real. This listen didn't give me such a sensation but I've got to give these guys a solid rating for their ability to provoke so much emotion.
Great album. Not super into folk music but the mix of modern instruments and enjoyable melody made it an easy listen (for the most part). My only gripe is that, as seemingly a quality of folk music, songs didn't really have a melody that kept constant, so while I may like the first half of a song, the second half doesn't usually match that.
Really enjoyable. Lovely melodies and lyrically strong.
good folk
I have listened to this album several times over the years since release. I really appreciate Pecknolds voice, I like what the band is doing and I like it in general but the album kinda just settles into a calm chill folky state and it’s a cozy album. Their follow-up may actually surpass what they did on this one, but both are worthwhile listens. Fleet Foxes won’t blow ya away but they’re great company for when you’re looking for warm tones. It’s a great album. 4 stars
This is a fantastic album, I bought it when it came out - really captures the indie-folk sound of the time. Music for the winter
Ça bang toujours, très doux et mellow
Gostei muito.
Good album from my youth
I really enjoyed this. The voices and the style. Pleasant and relaxing. Listened three times.
I liked the singles and the last track and the whole album on the whole was a very relaxing vibe.
Still hits
Nostalgia. Honestly was probably more into the girls that were into Fleet Foxes than I was into Fleet Foxes. Still fun to sing along tho
8/10
The history of western pop music is just filled with folk revivals. Ultimately, music is made by people and traditional forms that can recognizably be made by people (not yer beeps and boops and fancy drum loops) come back into vogue. Plenty of tunes survived the Baroque period or Lisztomania, so folk music popping back up contemporaneously with the British Invasion or Deadmau5 is really not something that should surprise us. But it always does! At this time in history, see also Mumford & Sons's first album or the first couple from The Lumineers. Or a ton of others -- all of whom, like Fleet Foxes, are still making good music, it's just fallen out of vogue. This is kind of like the recurring popularity of workwear-derived fashion (or, arguably, the modern phenomenon of athleisure) -- the sort of music that people are making anyway becomes fashionable once every ten or twenty years, lately. And then we go back to 'what other weird sounds could be music?' This is a really popular example of the form. Folky friends held this in the highest regard among its Aughts Folk Revival peers and I'm glad to have had an opportunity to spend time with it. The harmonies are delicately beautiful, the compositions are largely pretty straightforward -- neither terribly traditional (every song is an original Robin Pecknold composition) nor pop (no weird song forms and all instruments that have been involved in western music for at least a couple hundred years, depending on whether the electric-ness of the guitars bothers you). It's a good one, though it doesn't stick with me. I'll come back to see if it starts to, but I like my folk a little sadder, angrier, more foot-stomping or all of the above. However, that's still a 4/5 from me.
Very pretty album. Kinda folky. Lovely singing. Favorites: Your Protector, Blue Ridge Mountains
This was a little spot of joy. White Winter Hymnal is part of our Christmas tradition, far better option than the usual Christmas music fare. It's a bit twee but I don't mind that. Good album for a long drive to a secluded camping spot - this is the sound of nature and simple pleasures.
I love a good folk vibe. This is the perfect album for fall when you start to feel a chill in the air. It's very good, very beautiful, just sort of boring to me. I think I love Fleet Foxes for relaxing background noise. I'd love to listen to them at a cafe while I read a book. That would be perfect. But that's not a 5 album for me. A 5 album has me HOOKED. So it's a 4.
Out of all the bands operating in this genre of melancholy folk, Fleet Foxes were ahead of the rest. A beautiful, pretty, polished album. Not one I want to listen to every day, but it’s solid.
I first encountered Fleet Foxes after seeing their performance on "Later with Jools Holland", a BBC TV show in the UK, and was immediately impressed by their musicianship and vocal arrangements. The band's self-titled debut album delivers a full, layered sound that blends folk, pop, and gospel influences. The production is consistently strong, creating a timeless, pastoral feel. The vocal harmonies are impeccable and are a core part of the album's identity, often evoking the sounds of Crosby, Stills & Nash and The Beach Boys. The band also uses dynamics to great effect, allowing songs to build from quiet, intimate moments to sweeping crescendos. While every song is well-crafted, several tracks stand out, including "Sun It Rises," "White Winter Hymnal," "Ragged Wood," "He Doesn't Know Why," "Your Protector," and "Blue Ridge Mountains." Overall, the album is a consistently good and beautiful listen. While it may not resonate with me as strongly as it did with critics at the time, it is undeniably a very good album that successfully achieves its ambitious, grand sound. Four stars. 1- "Sun It Rises" - (5/5) 2- "White Winter Hymnal" - (5/5) 3- "Ragged Wood" - (5/5) 4- "Tiger Mountain Peasant Song" - (3/5) 5- "Quiet Houses" - (3/5) 6- "He Doesn't Know Why" - (5/5) 7- "Heard Them Stirring" - (3/5) 8- "Your Protector" - (5/5) 9- "Meadowlarks" - (4/5) 10- "Blue Ridge Mountains" - (5/5) 11- "Oliver James" - (5/5) Total - 48 Average - 4.36 100/1001
Some excellent tracks and a cohesive album overall. Nothing exactly mind blowing but still highly enjoyable 8/10 12/09/25
I am familiar with Fleet Foxes, think they were hyped up on some end of year, decade etc metacritic list and grabbed my attention so I have definitely listened to this before. Nice and easy listen. A folky Beach Boys sound. Finding it easy enough to link a lot of the production and stylistic decisions on this album to Pet Sounds. It's just not as impressive in 2008. This music is too inoffensive across the whole album so never really impacted me. Certainly an impressive debut and the album cover is very cool but it's just too "nice" for me. 3.5/5. Raising to a 4.
Merry christmas
This is how you do 2000s hipster music. Actually nailing the music instead of being cringy fashion chasers. A good listen. Harmonies were gorgeous
If the Beach Boys moved to the forest and made a folk record dipped in the deepest reverbs, it might sound exactly like this.
Renaissance Faire music for the modern audience, and a lot better than the 60s albums of the same type I have gotten so far on this list. It sounds like a mix of CSNY, Simon and Garfunkel, and The Beatles. I liked it a lot more than I expected to, but it's not quite up to a 5.
Da pra ver o que esse album inspirou. Se eu tivesse ouvido em 2008, talvez seria 5/5.
It’s not going to sweep the boards at the dance awards, but it is quite a beautiful listen
This one goes out to all my hipsters in the mountains. Gentle and delightful. A real chill listen.
Pretty Good!
Love this band.. all the harmonies. haunting.
ma che figata! bello, molto bello, mi sentivo in una dimensione fatata fatta di campi sconfinati, praterie, cavalli, gnomi e fatine. una sorta di prateria del West americano ma che ospita anche una colonia di creature fatate. conoscevo già White Winter Hymnal perchè i Pentatonix ne avevano fatto una cover strepitosa, ma veramente anche le altre super piacevoli. ottimo, ottimo sottofondo
Very good emotive songs, he has a familiar sounding voice, I think a lot of people making pop music now have tried to imitate him, mostly failing to make it this good. Some of these are a bit more rockier than I was expecting, but there are obviously the more folk/acoustic ones are where I think they shine the best. The backing vocals are great, but I do think sometimes they are oversoaked in reverb, but maybe they recorded in a huge room or something. The mood generally evokes a very specific midwinter mood - I think something about the vocal melodies reminds me or interpolates Christmas Hymns, which make it feel quite nostalgic even though I've never heard these songs (I've gotta relisten in the Winter) It does feel a bit 'safe', which is a bit of an unfair criticism, beacause they clearly found a style and stuck with it. Favourite songs: pretty much all. Overall around 7/10
Great album/genre
Wasn't expecting much but honestly, this turned out great. It leans heavy into the vocals which may turn off some but I though it was quite nice. It's peaceful, solemn, and spiritual. Though there is something that I can't quite put my finger on that makes me want to be more critical of this album, eh either way this was a great listen. Very replayable! Top 5: Sun It Rises, White Winter Hymn, He Doesn't Know Why, Ragged Wood, and Blue Ridge Mountains no bad songs 3.75-4.25/5
This album was pretty good. It was sort of like psychedelic blue grass? Kind of like a 70s family band with the vocals but probably do medium drugs. Really enjoyed white winter hymnal and blue ridge mountains. Lots of really great vocal harmonies and a key change in almost every song.
White Winter Hymnal
Harmony and vocals are worthy of revisit. The sound is so pure and yet complex. The vocals are "shut off your phone" and pay attention to how beautiful everything is balanced and tonally rich. I didn't think I'd enjoy this album but it was lovely.
its very pretty and good :) i shouldve been listening to this in middle school instead of alt-J but oh well too late now
Hard to go wrong with really any of fleet foxes discography. Gorgeous album with ethereal harmonies
I'd never heard this band before, and what it sounds like came out of left field for me--in a good way. They really committed to the chamber-folk-choral harmonies thing, and I don't know if this is a very saturated genre or not, but it feels pretty unique to me. The music felt pastoral, peaceful and earthy...and yet evocative of a cathedral or temple, uplifting and inspiring me with its many layered, ethereal harmonies.
A real nice album of Folk Rock. Although not without its imperfections, hut they really don't ruin the experience. 4/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
I'm such a sucker for building a song off of a droning note. I find it memorizing, haunting even. They often will hit a chord and sustain it to harmonize in and out of it. Playing with melodies with every instrument available. Because it's such gentle music my mind keeps wanting to say it's simplistic in it's greatest form, but this is not simple music. They are masters of building and releasing tension, and toying with dynamic sounds to direct a song. My only complaint is that I'm not sure what to do with my body as I listen, id love to know every word and song along to the ethereal harmonies but let's fact it, that's not my level. It's not really a head bob kinda album, dancing seems tough, unless it's like an Irish jig. I must see them live, not only to witness what they are actually able to accomplish on stage, but to see what fans do. Maybe general hand waving? Smile gently and rock your hips back and forth? Sit criss cross apple sauce and wait for it to end? Does everyone line up and dance like they did when white wigs were all the rage? Meditation? I've rated it 4 but we both know it's 4.5
Atmospheric but with good melodies and harmonies. Hippy Folk? Very short. Lacking a real singable song. 4.0
A little slow for me, but still a great album.
Very easy listening album. Good melodies and nice vocals.
Fantastic, a great nostalgic listen. 2008 was a good year.
Idk. I liked it
🪕
Amazing that is was a debut
American folk. Pretty, floaty vocals. Joyful harmonies.
Pleasant indie rock
Really cool album, I’m surprised I never heard of these guys back when Mumford & Sons and that type of music was big. I really like the genre, I’m excited to listen to the music outside of this album too.
This album actually aged really well.
Love it!!!
fun folk album, fleet foxes always manages to make me feel like i'm going on an adventure I prefer Helplessness Blues over this album, but still an enjoyable listen!
The vocals in the album are quite a treat. This album feels very warm and pure. Maybe it is because winter is starting to end where I am from, but it really is fitting for the warming of the spring. I really like the variations between very soft instrumentals to more forward instrumentals. They also vary the layering on the vocals a lot which keeps them sounding fresh.
This album has a sweetness to it that is irresistible.
Never heard of these guys before so i didnt expect much, nonetheless they are now on my playlist thats for sure
Écouté dans la voiture avec Alix lorsqu’on allait acheter notre voiture !🚗 Très chouette 🦉
Sound of my late 2010s. Reminds me of Three Rock, Mountain Biking, Sally Gap, writing papers for undergraduate, the college library, the Dublin coastline. Brilliant folk rock, a near 5* musical experience. High 4*
I liked this one when it came out - fell off my playlist - which is unfortunate 4/5 #Musicsky #albumsky
That was nice and sweet
I've never really given Fleet Foxes much of a chance; I liked this quite a bit. It was reminiscent of CSNY at times, but with a songwriting style that's entirely unique. Would definitely listen to again. 3.5/5
Good discovery
Glad i gave this 2 listens, definitely clicked with me on the second one. They clearly have their distinct sound with the rich, shiny folk sound and constant use of harmonies (which got a little old). The guitar sounded really nice and was layered nicely with other guitars, pianos and backing vocals and what i assume to be percussion played on guitar a bit as-well. The album cover is a highlight as well and really matches the feel of the album. Production clearly a strong point too, felt quite immersive, although some of the songs got a bit repetitive and felt like repeats of some of the others a little, wasn’t a fan of the more acoustic based songs like meadowlarks and Oliver james as it felt too stripped down for their sound, the harmonies don’t work as well without being layered with instruments. Favourites: Sun it Rises, White Winter hymnal, Ragged wood, Tiger mountain peasant song, He doesn’t know why and heard them stirring. Overall, 7/10.
liked it
Enjoyable listen. I knew and loved White Winter Hymnal. That was the only song I knew on this album, but I know other songs by this band. This is very much my style of music.
Ein atmosphärisches Meisterwerk, das Indie-Folk neu definierte. Mit himmlischen Harmonien, pastoralen Texten und einem Hauch von Nostalgie entführt das Album in eine klangliche Landschaft zwischen Waldlichtung und Berggipfel. Highlights: „White Winter Hymnal“ – hypnotisch und geheimnisvoll, ein Ohrwurm mit Choralcharakter. „Tiger Mountain Peasant Song“ – melancholisch und intim, fast wie ein modernes Volkslied. „Blue Ridge Mountains“ – episch und emotional, mit dramatischem Aufbau. Gerne mal wieder 😊
Exactly what I thought fleet foxes would sound like. Fun album.
Good 4/5
A mellow listen sort of reminiscent of folk groups from the 60's sort of like Pentangle or Lindisfarne.
While it’s not their best in my view, this album was in my view the pinnacle of the folk resurgence that came in the 2000s. No other band emulated that sound better than early Fleet Foxes. This record is filled with utterly beautiful harmonies, immersive medieval passages and choruses that are immensely fun to sing. White Winter Hymnal, Ragged Wood, TMPS, Your Protector, Oliver James are some of the best folk songs of the modern era. And they only got better with their second album.
Super folky album. Kind of campfire, winter wonterland vibes in a way.
Degelijk folk album dat door folk fans waarschijnlijk gehaat wordt, wat het misschien nog beter maakt. Warme stem, warme sound. 4.2
Fleet Foxes is only good vibes. not always in the mood for these guys but today it was perfect.
Pretty good. Great vibes overall. A time capsule. White Winter Hymnal is a great song.
Haven’t heard this one in ages. Very pretty! And yeah. That’s pretty much it. But I mean very. Very pretty.
very very very very pretty album. i likey
It's hippy music for the modern era. It's pretty chill
Приятный альбом, у вокалиста очень красивый и спокойный голос, больше половины песен весьма хороши и точно многим понравяться
The perfect blend of folk and rock. 4.5/5
En ting e at det va nokka æ likte å høre på i 2008, men det æ tenkte på da æ hørte det nu va at det bare ga mæ mer lyst til å høre på Ha Ha Tonka, som gjør en lignanes greie, men på en mye mer fenganes måte.
I don't really know much about Fleet Foxes, so I went into this album not knowing to expect. It feels like this era was big on that folk pop sound. It reminds me a little of early Mumford & Sons, but still unique and different. There is some interesting mixing happening here, like with the panning in Sun It Rises. I'm glad to discover this album, it was such a cool vibe and it might become a new favourite. I find myself thinking of Mumford & Sons, but there is also some influences from much older folk artists. There are just some interesting mixing and instrument choices and that is the real highlight of the album Standouts: Sun It Rises, White Winter Hymnal, Ragged Wood, He Doesn't Know Why
The only thing Investoren listened to before from Fleet Foxes is "Mykonos", I think. Which I very much liked, but I never went further. So listening to the debut in full, I knew what kind of style was waiting for me. Beautiful chamber rock, soft, melodious, relaxing. I have to say though, on full album length, it starts to feel a bit samesy, beauty notwithstanding. There are still highlights like "Ragged Wood", "Your Protector" and "Blue Ridge Mountains", but as a whole it does not quite reach the top for me.
Not exactly my cup of tea, but it is an undeniably good album. Amazing vocals, but I can't say I like the vocal harmonies and the (perhaps excessive) use of reverb. The instrumentation is amazing, though; no notes on that. The lyricism is rather great, specially in songs like Ragged Woods or He Doesn't Know Why; the use of visuals is top notch, but sometimes it feels too abstract and misses the balance of storytelling and visuals. Overall, a good album, with some small caveats from personal taste.
Liked it
Lucid dreaming—don't wake me
I have loved and still love this album.
pretty one note but it’s a pretty one note
i love this album so much it makes me feel like i’m flying
Flower frolicking music
I irrationally hate white winter hymnal but the rest was v good
Fantastic stuff - adore the harmonies. Important record in late 2000s folk revival but can't hold that against it!
I've been going back time and time again to this album for many years now - it fits very nicely into my musical taste. But is it a five star album, along with the likes of The Stone Roses etc? I'm struggling to justify that, hence the 4*.
Not my typical bag. Captivating, which means a lot coming from me. Sags a bit in the middle, but overall has a lot of depth and allure through the harmonies, and the warmth of the singer's voice. Reminds me of an acoustic Boy & Bear. Ultimately this demonstrates what the list of 1001 should do. I would play this for 4 out of 5 people.
Good folk? How?
3.5
I've always been told to give this album a listen, but for some reason I never have. I absolutely really love this album. And even though it does somewhat suffer from the millennial vocal wispiness that i'm not the biggest fan of, I really found the folk instrumentation just absolutely gorgeous and the harmonies on here are absolutely heaven. I'm going to give it a 4½ for now with room to grow. (9.5) ★★★★½
4.5
Cool calm evening album
Beautiful album, v nostalgic for anyone growing up in the 00s
chill d cojones, m encanto
Some classics on here that still sound great, not my usual listen now or on release, but worth a 4-star rating from me.
Wasn't 100% sure about it at the beginning, but got into it toward the end. White winter hymnal is a song I have heard before and love!
Like the folky vibe a lot
Ah the hipster days. Love Robin’s voice and I’m a fan anyway.
Un clásico del indie de los 2000 y un álbum por el que siempre he sentido debilidad. Indie folk, pastoral y gospel a ratos, lleno de instrumentos y texturas, aunque muy calmado, y con unas armonías preciosas. Música muy compleja a la vez que sosegada y plácida, muy atmosférica y de fácil escucha. Uno de mis álbumes favoritos dentro de ese “chamber indie folk”, por llamarlo de alguna manera, junto con algunos de Beirut. Una obra maestra, un álbum majestuoso aunque quizá algo monótono como para darle cinco estrellas, al menos hoy mientras lo escucho. Hay que estar con el ánimo adecuado para apreciarlo, y hoy ando un poco estresado.
This was one of the best vinyl purchases I made around the time this album came out. Sub Pop packaged the record along with the Sun Giant EP, the perfect companion piece to the record as a whole. This is a great example of a record that sounded fresh but "old" at the same time, like you stumbled upon an old forgotten relic, yet it somehow sounds familiar. I've listened to the records Fleet Foxes have made since this one, but this is still my favorite.
mun betra en mig minnti. ennþá tilgerðarlegt og full krúttlegt en fínar lagasmíðar, spil og söngur.
Hard to describe but very pleasant to listen to and plan to listen to this album a few more times. And great vocals!
big love für fleet foxes – noni vill lieder kännt aber die woni känne findi super, white winter hymnal isch es 10i – hüt hani paar neui dezenti 7i's & 8i's dezue gfunde mis indieherz hetti vor paar jahr richtig freud gha – hüt hani aber au es bizli freud muess aber au säge: das album hetti amne früsche herbsttag no chli meh ghittet trotzdem gids 4 flotti füchs aus dem hause hertzog
It was a surprisingly enjoyable album
Really like this! New to me.
Lush and layered. I love this album but too nostalgic for me. Reminds me of living in Sydney and living in Norway.
They sing well, but the echoey hall and everybody singing at once got extremely overdone in this era and I’m so over it.
Fleet Foxes is one of those bands that I've heard of but never listened to. Wasn't sure if I would like it as it can be hit or miss with these folky types of bands but pleasantly surprised. Some of the slower songs can lean a little on the twee side but overall really enjoyed it. Love the harmonies. Favorites: Ragged Wood, Quiet Houses, Your Protector, Blue Ridge Mountains Would I listen to it again: Yes
Solid album
that was nice
So good. Listened to it three times in a row and then checked out the rest of their catalog
Very solid. Very enjoyable.
It was an album of the moment and not really to my taste, but this is pretty good.
Fleet Foxes arrived like a breath of fresh air in 2008, making folk-alt music cool and trendy again. Listening again...it's still a gorgeous album of music for a sunny weekend evening spent chilling in the garden. Recommended.
Is it possible for an album to sound paradoxically timeless and completely and totally "of its time"? If so, I'd say that description is perfectly apt here. Fleet Foxes were at the forefront of that hugely popular turn in music that would soon bring us Mumford & Sons and The Lumineers, with a sound strongly influenced by traditional folk with a mix of features that seem to go all the way back to the Renaissance. "White Winter Hymnal" is an amazing song, with a video that's probably the most heart-breaking animation you've seen since the first ten minutes of Pixar's "Up."
Very beautiful album. The incredibly clear production makes this a really pleasent and relaxing listening. It is also filled with wonderful instrumentation and powerful and catchy vocal lines, specially in songs like 'Your Protector'.
Had a clear 70’s vibe. But with a My Morning Jacket twist.
Beautiful driving music.
Folky, pastoral loveliness.
I ended up liking this more than I thought. It was a little soft, but I still enjoyed it. Some probably dislike it a little since it can get a little samey. 4/5
a bit bland but pleasant - 3.5 rounded up
- tolles und entspanntes Album, werde ich definitiv nochmal hören - durch 101 jetzt nicht mein "erster" Berührungspunkt (vor 101 kannte ich gefühlt nur Mykonos), aber genau wie "Helplessnes Blues" einfach catchy
85/100. Fleet Foxes’ self-titled debut is an amazing folk record, full of soothing harmonies and calming melodies. It’s the perfect album to wind down with, offering a sense of peace and warmth throughout.
The are some classic gems in the album, very classic 80s album.
This is probably one of the best albums from the early 2000s. Fleet Foxes took the religion out of gospel and the Sacred Harp vocal style, and they mixed it all with modern indie rock. The result is gorgeous and lush, like flying over a pleasant green, sprawling landscape. But like the deceptive cover art, there's a lot going on when you look closely.
Something really comforting about this album. Tiger mountain peasant song was a favorite. Harmonies are great 4
Been over 10 years since I've listened to this album. Wondered quite a bit how much Father John Misty has been influenced by it. It's so atmospheric and enjoyable to listen to.
3.5-4
I listened to one song from this album before, I'm excited to listen to the full album. It was great, I love indie folk! This is a definite 4/5 for me!
Hard to say if this album just came at the right time - hard to say if it's just nostalgia from having sung "White Winter Hymnal" in gymnasium. I did like it more than I expected too. Although I'm not a fan of the genre as a whole, I do appreciate the harmony on this album - the soundscape in general. Sometimes I did want "more" from the harmony; just a tiny bit less cliché and more "out there". However, I can't escape the fact that this album did move me and that must count for something. If I could I would probably give 3.5 stars, but in my opinion it is closer to 4 than 3, so that is what it'll get.
Beautiful harmonies and just love his voice. Manages to stick to a particular sound but keeps it interesting and varied. White winter hymnal is also just such a freaking banger.
Never heard it before. Thanks! Super.
The ghosts of Simon and Garfunkel live! Top tier folk harmonies and melodies raised by spectacular production where the drums and vocals are given so much space they sound epic. Recommended 4/5
a worthy, underrated record for this list
I now want to drink beer in a hammock.
Earworming but pretty mellow
Interesting sound. Very 2000's indie rock
Very chill. Love the funky song structures and the poetic lyrics with a hint of dark. The big drum stuck out to me in parts. Some songs lost my interest in the middle. Album art is A+
cool
I wasn’t really on the Fleet Foxes hype train back in 2008—hard to believe that was so long ago. I did buy the album at the time, but I’m not sure I ever listened to it all the way through... until now. Revisiting it with fresh ears, I’ve come to appreciate just how beautifully crafted it is. The harmonies are rich, the production is flawless, and every track feels carefully put together. It’s an album that has grown on me over time, and I find myself valuing it much more now that I’m older. Favourite Song: There are quite a few tracks I’d describe as gentle and easy to listen to—“White Winter Hymnal” and “Oliver James” stand out in that regard. However, the album does feel like it’s missing a couple of big, standout moments. That said, “Your Protector” is probably my favourite—it’s a truly lovely song. Least Favourite Song: Honestly, there isn’t a bad track on the album. Everything is pleasant and cohesive, making for a consistently enjoyable listen. Album Artwork: The cover art is charmingly whimsical and full of intricate detail. There’s a lot going on, and it really draws you in—perfectly matching the album’s layered, pastoral sound..
I have such good memories about White Winter Hymnal I just never got around to listening to the full album unit now. Really good
this seems at first glance like something i would call "soft" but there is a lot going on here that i appreciate and enjoy. first album i felt the urge to listen to twice in a row. especially liked your protector and ragged wood
A pleasant deja-vu!
Fleet Foxes is a band I’ve heard of and never listened to before. It strikes me as borrowing a lot of vocal arrangements, sounds and vibes from The Beach Boys, Simon & Garfunkel, the Shins, Neil Young, and even some singer-songwriters like Johnny Cash. I like it, and glad that I found it through this list. At 39 minutes it is a strong, tight debut album and a good listen. 4⭐️
Not my cup of tea, but a nice album nonetheless.
I liked it!
i absolutely adore this album
good folk
Already heard this one, it's a banger
Liked the vibe, listened to it all day and never got annoyed
This album must have thoroughly infected one of my ca. 2010 Pandora station and I recognized maybe 5 or 6 tracks. Yet I've never decided whether I like this music or not. Good, but not for me, but I'll listen to it. 3.5
alright i don't know anything about this band other than they have a cool name and people like them. they're folk too i think. let's do it TRACK BY TRACK 1 SUN IT RISES. wooow. for some strange reason the intro made my skin crawl a bit but my expectations were soon knocked out of the water with the gorgeous lush guitar and the overall dreamy atmosphere this evokes. and that heavier guitar that comes in is crazy good. great introduction and it has got me very excited for sure. 9/10 2 WHITE WINTER HYMNAL. yeah. just so lush and gorgeous. you can really immerse yourself in every instrument because of the crisp production and the harmonies are great, which isn't something i find myself saying much. to me it sounds like if alvvays made folk music, which is probably a weird comparison but that's how i think of it. very pretty, i'm impressed. 9/10 3 RAGGED WOOD. it's like that shining carefree advertisement music where people are smiling and laughing and running through the grass and picking flowers and having fun but instead of being a torturous waste of time that a quick gouging of the eyes would be welcome to replace, you feel like the person in that ad, running through the grass and having fun despite the fact you're running through grass and picking flowers. the music's cool too. 9/10 4 TIGER MOUNTAIN PEASANT SONG. a nice guitar picking song that still manages to be lush and textured despite just being a simple guitar and his vocals. 8/10 5 QUIET HOUSES. this is just so strong and so solid. it does everything the other songs did for me as well as having a very cool piano breakdown and build up. 9/10 6 HE DOESN'T KNOW WHY. only a little weaker but still manages to hit everything right. nothing else to add. 9/10 7 HEARD THEM STIRRING. very evocative and slightly medieval, soundtrack core. 8/10 8 YOUR PROTECTOR. it's another song, surprisingly. not so surprisingly, it's good. 8/10 9 MEADOWLARKS. man the atmosphere is so so good when they hit it fully. very beautiful. 8/10 10 BLUE RIDGE MOUNTAINS. this band made stomp and holler adjacent music and made it way more than listenable, crazy. this is gorgeous stuff, really. this is when the happy go lucky flower pickers start crying all over the grass. 9/10 11 OLIVER JAMES. weaker but works as a closer weirdly enough. chill. amazing vocal performance. 7/10 and here i was expecting some probably middling indie folk pop band trudging their way through eleven tracks. this album is lush and packed with gorgeous melodies and harmonies over such sweet production. i can see myself coming back to this, maybe when it's a bit sunnier. it's not, if you didn't know. 9/10
Enjoyed it!
its relaxing for working. i didnt dislike it. 4/5
Really relaxing chill music
Sparse, crisp folk rock with an emphasis on vocals. Good sound - just generally a pretty good time.
OVERALL: Going into this, the only Fleet Foxes song I've heard is White Winter Hymnal, and I think Mykonos like once. After listening, I like what I'm hearing. The vocals are very good, but some of the songs are gonna have to grow on me. Blue Ridge Mountains is probably one of the best songs I've heard and maybe one of my favorite songs ever, but it's surrounded by mediocre. About half of the songs are really good while the rest are 7/10 at best. Despite this, the instrumental on basically every song is amazing, and the only songs where the instrumental isn't the greatest have really good vocals. My biggest flaw with this is probably that the lyrics are not that good the more that I think about it, but there are also times when they can be really good. I feel like everything I don't really like about it is balanced by something good, and Blue Ridge Mountainsis probably the best song that this generator has given me. SONG AVG: 8.214545/10 PERSONAL RATING: 7.75/10 Sun It Rises: Haven't heard a lot of folk before, so I can't tell if this is generic. The guitar that comes in at 1:30 is really good, super atmospheric. There are basically no lyrics, but the vocals sound pretty good, although I guess I can see them being corny. Pretty good opener. 7.75/10 White Winter Hymnal: I know this one! It's good. Great instrumental, and the vocals are pretty good. The instrumental is so unbelievably good, I hope this quality continues. It's also a lot shorter than I thought it would be, but I guess it doesn't drag on. Too short for me to give it a higher rating, but it's really nice. The lyrics are certainly there. 9.25/10 Ragged Wood: Nice. The only complaints I have with it is that it is sometimes boring and the instrumental is sometimes not the best. Pretty much perfect otherwise, pretty fun and catchy. I might actually give it a 10, but since some parts are lacking I will lower the score. The lyrics are actually good I guess. 9.86/10 Tiger Mountain Peasant Song: Very eerie and atmospheric, great narratively and lyrically. Kinda boring otherwise, but the lyrics and the story carry this. Might grow on me, but currently above average. 7/10 Quiet Houses: I guess this is an interlude. There are only 18 different words in the lyrics (if I counted right). I don't really like the vocals, and the "darkening" that he's supposed to be saying does not sound like it at all. The instrumental, especially the last minute, carry this to above average. 5.75/10 He Doesn't Know Why: Solid lyrics, and the instrumental is pretty nice. I really like the last section, but for the rest of the song the instrumental feels worse than other songs. It still sounds really good, though. It does feel like it kinda drags on, but it's pretty good for most of it. 8.75/10 Heard Them Stirring: No lyrics on this one. Sounds pretty good, functions very well for an interlude. It is also a 3 minute long interlude, but it sounds good when stuff is actually happening. 7/10 Your Protector: Really good, although a bit corny. I don't really know why I like this other than that I think it sounds good. I guess the lyrics are nice. 9.25/10 Meadowlarks: It's good, but a pretty big change from every other song that comes before it. Very nice and atmospheric, I like the harmonies in the part that does the thing. I go back and forth on liking this one and thinking it's like a 4, so I'll give it something in between. 6.75/10 Blue Ridge Mountains: Holy shit, this might actually be perfect. The intro is really good, kinda like Meadowlarks but I'm confident that I like it. The drop is absolutely incredible, and it keeps staying like that for the rest of the song. The lyrics are above average, but I usually care for sound more than lyrics for artists that use voices as an instrument. My biggest complaint is that there is like 10 seconds of silence at the end, but other than that it's perfect. Definitely should have been the album closer. 12/10 Oliver James: I'm gonna be honest, I didn't realize that this song ended when it did. Pretty good vocal performance, although ends abruptly and is kinda boring. Solid storytelling. This feels like a B-side that probably shouldn't be on here. It reminds me of Hide and Seek, except it doesn't really fit the album. The vocal performance is very good, but they weren't probably the best on the album it would be a 5 at best. 7/10
This album makes me want to frolic in a medieval pasture.
It's a very well made folk album.
Very nice and relaxing. Listened to the extended version and the extra song from the Japanese limited edition release. Might be good hiking music
Love the music, love the indie rock folk vibe. It is just not my favourite genre
***
You can't resist those melodies.
Probably the best indie folk album there is. Make sure to listen to the Sun Giant EP with it; it complements the album in quite an essential way.
Indie/chamber folk of the last 2 decades rarely gets better than this! Always happy to listen to any Fleet Foxes record.
Heard it
I've played this album three times now. And I'm really not sure how to rate this album. I think it's a a lovely set of songs, very nicely recorded. It's just that it's not a musical style I particularly care for.
More soulless Hosier?
Solid album, well written and produced. Didn't have anything that stood out as amazing too me, just mildly enjoyable throughout. 7/10
Very peaceful, I sort of floated through in a bliss. Always loved this album. I found myself a little less interested than I had been in the past.
i get it more now than back then
Хорошая спокойная музыка, в меру лиричная в меру грустная, не заунывная
Another early folksy rock preempting Mumford and Sons, Lumineers. This time with pseudo medieval elements. Better than Arcade Fire Best track - White Winter Hymnal
It took me a bit to determine if I heard Fleet Foxes' music before. That was answered with the second track "White Winter Hymnal" which I listened to in passing. The rich vocal harmonies, the jangly guitar strumming, the lush organic instrumentation, that was a sound that I don't hear often, but when I do it served as a nice wash over me. That's pretty much the sentiment for the whole record, where the group took cues from the bright and cheery pop of the 1960s mixed with alternative country to create a chill vibe that covers you like a warm blanket. Sure, this is another debut album where the lyrics aren't too deep, but the atmosphere is impeccable enough to make it stand out in the indie folk scene. In that regard, Fleet Foxes' record was worth checking out on that quality alone. As a fun fact to end this review, shortly before the release of this debut, the band brought on drummer Josh Tillman to replace Nicholas Peterson. He would work with the group for a couple of years before branching off and finding success on his own under the moniker Father John Misty. It's interesting how life works that way.
I had never heard of this group till this. I was delightfully surprised.
* Like hearing something a bit different.
Great sound/voice! Something special, stands out!
Fun listen, but no new favorites
The second best track featuring singing in rounds since Houmous & Chutney’s cover of ‘You Spin Me Right Round (& Round & Round & Round & Round & Round & Round & Round)’ - in fact a world record for the biggest 2 man round in history! 4.2
Netflix exclusive sitcom music.
This album and band have soaring harmonized vocals paired with soft instrumentals that other indie folk bands have, like Band of Horses or Mumford & Sons - and I really like those bands and each has some great albums. But this album was a bit more like another indie folk band the Decemberists - I really like a couple of their songs but when I go to listen to a whole album of theirs it has some holes or lags in places. I really liked White Winter Hymnal at track two. And to be honest, Sun It Rises, Ragged Wood, and Tiger Mountain Peasant Song around it were pretty solid. Then the album lags. It ends with Oliver James, which is really beautifully arranged and is the best song on the whole album. But the 6 songs in between? I listened to this album a bunch and at times some of those songs really struck me and other times I wasn't so sure. The album feels like a 3.5 and I could probably go either way. Feeling generous today.
Lush harmonies, interesting music. I enjoyed it a lot, but it doesn't pull me in the way a 5 typically would. Solid 4. Favorite tracks: Sun It Rises, White Winter Hymnal, Your Protector, Blue Ridge Mountains.
My kid introduced me to this some years ago, which is not how I expected cultural transference would happen in my household, especially since this album came out the year they were born. Nonetheless, it’s charming.
It's funny- I was thinking 'Animal Collective' and yeah these guys would fit into the 'non-human' theme! I'm a sucka for these kind of bands- pleasant and dreamy songs and safe quirky melodies.
Lush, beautiful harmonies
Bardzo mnie ciekawi jak ta płyta się tu znalazła. Myślę, że dla większości nie będzie wyjątkowa, ale ja bardzo lubię to folkowe, oldschoolowe brzmienie, a druga piosenka z płyty od dawna należy do jednej z moich ulubionych. Bardzo miękki, otulający wokal, delikatne instrumenty i taki klimat wszystkich pór roku jednocześnie. Piękne, akustyczne, moje. 8/10
bom album folk pra começar, gostei mto de he doesn't know why vou ouvir mais projetos da banda 7,5/10
This is a prime-Pitchfork era album. Luckily, I do love this era of music and Fleet Foxes shows us how to make Folk music sound interesting and relevant in a modern-day setting. After so many dreadfully boring Folk Rock album from the late-60's/early-70's we are finally presented with something that's actually exciting and vibrant. Key tracks: White Winter Hymnal Ragged Wood Your Protector Oliver James
Excellent! 👌
Love this band. Folk, but with some rhythm and blues and bounce to it. The vocals pair so beautifully with the instrumentation and the sequencing of tracks is done so well. This record captures everything I think of when Fleet Foxes comes to mind, with uplifting grooves and melodies. A real pleasure to listen to this crew.
Buona musica. Non tutte le canzoni mi piacciono, ma alcune meritano e le ho salvate nella mia playlist.
My second favourite Fleet Foxes behind Crack-Up. I don’t think this reaches any of the highs of that album outside of maybe Blue Ridge Mountains. What this does it does very well. Catchy folk pop songs that are so full in sound and flawlessly produced. Pecknold is a master songwriter. Embarrassingly reminds me of my junior high “girlfriend”. Hope she’s doing well. White Winter Hymnal is forever ruined by Pentatonix.
Sometimes good music is just good music, and this is that!
Sun It Rises harmonies remind me of Beatles Sun King, pleasant. Winter Hymnal is a favourite of mine anyway. Great arrangement, great rhythm to it and the drums sound nice and big when they kick in. Tiger Mountain Peasant is another highlight, the vocal performance is such a triumph and the lyrics conjure mental tapestries of simple townsfolk playing rebecs and shawms. He Doesn’t Know Why has that lovely ascending/descending cadence, it could wear thin in the wrong hands, but they pull it off amidst their distinct sound and tight playing. Nice calm little outro to cap it off. Your Protector is a bit of a belter, it has more bite to it than the other songs. I imagine the villagers featured in the cover art, are rallying to ward off some intruders, or threat of violence, pitchforks, lit torches at the ready, women and children tucked up indoors while the men are poised for battle. The production is excellent. Everything sounds big and clear without being overwhelming, vocals and instrumentals all sit nicely in the mixes, it creates an intimate listening experience. Like being taken to the proverbial church.
Nicely chill
Love how folksy it is.
One of the most beautiful pieces of indie rock I’ve ever heard. The songwriting is top-notch but can get stale at times. Still a great listen.
Like to folk style and some good hits.
boom clap hey ahh music
Very folk, big voices, sweet to the ear. To listen while in a long road trip, wind down feel. Requires a few listens, but still great first album.
Man, I wasn't familiar with this album when it came out, but listening to it now still evoked a lot of nostalgia for me. I guess it does a great job of representing the indie music of the era. Those were some good times, truly. I'm glad this is on here; it's too bad I missed it back in the day. Great album.
Peak indie bliss
Great album when you feel like you need to come of age again.
Fleet Foxes - Fleet Foxes Folk type album that actually sounds pretty damn good. It feels very dramatic, but also chill. The album cover really depicts well to how the music here sounds, feels like a roller-coaster of listening to this, including that with the story-telling which itself is already fantastic. Honestly, this is REALLY good! 1.- Sun It Rises = 8/10 2.- White Winter Hymnal = 9/10 3.- Ragged Wood = 10/10 4.- Tiger Mountain Peasant Song = 9/10 5.- Quiet Houses = 10/10 6.- He Doesn't Know Why = 9/10 7.- Heard Them Stirring = 8/10 8.- Your Protector = 9/10 9.- Meadowlarks = 8/10 10.- Blue Ridge Mountains = 10/10 11.- Oliver James = 8/10 FINAL SCORE: 8.9/10
I’m still not entirely sure that My Morning Jacket didn’t release a bunch of B sides under a pseudonym.
Really enjoyed this! Will be coming back to it
So prettyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy... :D
My favorite FF album.
Late 2000's indie folk goodness. Fleet Foxes is comfortable on this debut. I really like the harmonies and it is sonically pleasing. A couple songs (Ragged Wood, White Winter Hymnal, Blue Ridge Mountains) really stand out, and then the vast majority of the tracklist is just good not great.
Didn’t know much about indie folk but sounded pretty cool. Not sure about the guys voice but I like it
chill
Subtle and atmospheric. I could stand to revisit this closer
solid folk album. it's nice to hear something that isn't classic rock.
Lots of familiar classics heard on this album. Not much my thing, but enjoyable.
I love folk music, and there's clearly great musicianship on this record, with every track well crafted. Lovely album to listen to, but it seems to lack some soul, and in the end failed to really grab me.
I’m not typically into this Folky-Indie Rock style, but I listened to this multiple times. I hope to revisit it again soon.
Wow. Beautiful music. Would rate 4.5 on first listen. I’m interested in seeking out more FF and Father John Misty.
Part of my teenage P4K approved rotation. Very good example of 2000s indie-folk. Compared to Bon Iver's debut it's much more polished, but it doesn't have the tweeness of acts like the Shins. If that all means nothing to you, Fleet Foxes do that song about falling in the snow that's featured in countless Christmas movies. They're pretty good.
Def over-listened to this one back in the day and have yucky ex-girlfriend associations... Probably would have been a 5 back in the day, but alas!
Just a really solid collection of chamber-y folk rock tunes. I love the baroque touches. 4/5
Gammal favorit
It's mellow, easy folk with compelling lyrics and interesting instruments sprinkled in here and there. I like it. All kind of blends together, but not a bad thing.
Took a second listen and really liked it! Wasn't blown away the first time, glad I went back. :)
Great listen, good vibes and allowed for work to still be done. Hadn’t listened to much Fleet Foxes, but will definitely explore their catalog.
I was quick to write this off a bit when I saw it but it's lovely. Will likely revisit! Especially if I happen to be sat in nature lol
8/10. Great, calming album. Good for a variety of times.
A really nice debut album. I think this is one of the more effective records of the age where artists were looking back to genres and moods of the past and really building on them in an interesting way. The vocal production and harmonies are top notch. It also feels interesting how much dynamicism is permitted without someone stomping on a distortion pedal
I really enjoyed this, definitely has a Mumford and Sons/issue movie feel to it. A feel good easy listening album. I feel like it would make a decent road trip album.
I love this kind of music. The Fleet Foxes create a haunting atmosphere with this kind of gospel that's truly out there to transcend and tell the story. The ongoing hall effect - it's just great. This kind of folk music is what I want. Why not 5 starts? The album is great but often I wished for some more interesting instrumentation too. They could've simply done more with their already great base.
The first time I heard White Winter Hymnal by Fleet Foxes was on Mop Mix 2008 track-8. The last time I heard it was a week and a half ago when both my local middle school and high school covered the exact same song. It’s funny how sometimes such a simple song could end up creating such a lasting impact now over two full generations. Fleet Fleet Foxes were always the perfect early morning album. Their soft melodies and ephemeral rhythms were a perfect calming way to start a good day. I actually forgot how good this album really was. It has a beautiful way of offering huge production that simultaneously is coffee-shop personal. Key songs for me for Ragged Wood, and Your Protector, though I have to admit next time I listen to it I’ll probably pick two different songs. This is definitely a Must-Listen kind of album.
I've been keen to Fleet Foxes from the beginning. This whole album is total vibes. Stand out tracks: "Sun It Rises", "White Winter Hymnal" and "Blue Ridge Mountains". I'm not sure why an indie folk "rock" album should work so well but it just does. Just sit back and enjoy the lush harmonies and chill vibes.
I've been an admirer of Fleet Foxes' sound since I first encountered it. It's a lovely bit of 21st century folk music. The real question is- is "White Winter Hymnal" a Christmas song?
Mellow, beautiful, somehow left wanting a bit more whilst also not knowing how.
These harmonies? *chefs kiss*
I was so in the tank for this record and the Sun Giant EP when they were contemporary. It's been a while since I've given the album a listen. It's not as great as I remember; but it is still very good. The harmonies, arrangements and production are reminiscent of the Beach Boys, Crosby Stills & Nash, and Simon & Garfunkel. It was unique and fresh at the time; but in hindsight, the album is kind of stuck in one (very good) gear. Hearing it again reminds me of 2008, for better or worse.
Decent
A calming yet fun and whimsical folk treat for the ears of any music lover.
One of the albums growing up that made me realize I like music
I don’t like much folk music. And ~ 2010 there was plenty of terrible folk pop pumping through the radio, like vanilla pudding in my mouth. This, however, is solid. I didn’t like it when it came out, but have had repeated listens over the past 10 years and it has grown on me (or maybe…I’ve grown?). Agreed that it is a great fall / winter album.
Warrants a re-listen
Enjoy the melody and music notes.
12/6/24. Really good modern folk here. I've heard of Fleet Foxes but this is my first time listening, will need to check out the rest of their work!