SPILL ALBUM REVIEW: BON IVER – SABLE,

BON IVER
SABLE,
JAGJAGUWAR

SABLE, is the first new music under the Bon Iver name since the 2019 album I,I. Sure Justin Vernon and the members of the band have been making appearances on other artists albums, but SABLE, is a true Bon Iver EP. Perhaps fans were expecting for an album, but as it is SABLE will satisfy all Bon Iver fans, and may even bring new fans to their special brand of music

The album opens with “…” which is more or less a test pattern, which sets the stage for the next few songs that shape the EP.  “THINGS BEHIND THINGS BEHIND THINGS” introduces the theme of the EP, “I would like this feeling gone”, Vernon sings. The song was reportedly written in 2020 when Vernon was questioning his future in music. It addresses the anxiety and depression that he experienced in the past few years. It is clear that this song is the song of an artist at a crossroads. And it is musically and lyrically extremely well done.

“S P E Y S I D E” is a song of redemption and accepting responsibility for past transgressions. It is apologetic but it is more, it is accepting all the flaws within. It is a song of forgiveness and Vernon is able to do this musically and with beautiful lyrics. The EP ends with “AWARDS SEASON” which is a sparse song of hope.

This is three very powerful and very personal songs. Although he has help on the EP, Vernon is front and centre with his voice and guitar. He lays it out for all to see, and in some ways lets his fans know what has been happening since his last album. It is, at times, a little difficult to listen to, due to the honesty he is expressing.

Vernon had to get these songs out and clear the plate for his next project and the next stage in his life. Until he delivers an album, SABLE, is a major work from a very talented artist. And, until the album is released, SABLE will find its place alongside other classic albums/EPs.

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