Fleet Foxes - Sun Giant EP

Seattle's Fleet Foxes make such complex, harmonic, 70s inspired folk-rock, it's hard to believe that the band's principle songwriter, Robin Pecknold, is only 21 years old. There's a moment on David Crosby's "Laughing" where Cros, Joni, and the whole gang hit a harmony that might be the most gorgeous moment in the history of recorded music. The Fleet Foxes know that moment and they go for it. This EP is a precursor to the band's debut, "Ragged Wood", out in June. Product Description

A Giant Sun, Indeed

The Fleet Foxes' 5-song EP, "Sun Giant," is a marvelous, very-affordable introduction to this astounding folk/pop group from Seattle, who have proven themselves to be THE new band to watch out for. All five songs on this mini-album---"Sun Giant," "Drops In The River," "English House," "Mykonos," and "Innocent Son"---are gorgeous pieces. With singer/songwriter/guitarist Robin Pecknold's powerful vocals & heartfelt songwriting, along with the band's astonishing musical chops & vocal harmonising, Fleet Foxes will spellbind you. Their music will entrance you and soothe your soul. How wonderful it is to find a new band to be excited about! And don't just stop with buying "Sun Giant." If you like this EP, then you MUST buy Fleet Foxes' self-titled album, too, 'cause it's just as phenomenal. Fleet Foxes are a wonderful breath of fresh air in today's music world. Long may they run! August 23, 2008

One of the best albums of the year.

I purchased the full length Fleet Foxes album and was so impressed, I just had to expand my collection with the Sun Giant EP. These two releases are easily the best new music I have heard all year. Every song induces chills. Their music reflects sounds of early My Morning Jacket, yet seems fresh and original. Layered vocals and suddend shifts in direction keep the listener engrossed even in the most subtle moments. This EP is a must have. August 19, 2008

listen to this one, too

If you bought the other album, buy this EP because you are missing some really good stuff! You will love Mykonos. That is the one song I can't stop listening to. I bought both the EP and album the first day they came out, and I think people are starting to spread the word about FF.

I don't listen to folk music, but I love things that are new and combine several genres. This might be a stretch for people who listen to top 20 music, but isn't that how we find all the best artists? If you aren't into folksy music I would still try to give this album a listen. I think these guys are working on something new and beautiful. August 19, 2008

Start here

I cannot think of a better way to discover this band - this EP is timeless, eloquent and understated perfection. It is art without pretension. Simply stunning melodies, harmonies and accompaniment. Great liner notes also. Forty years or more mind melded. Smart. Yes, start here. July 30, 2008

Sun Giant Shines Brightly

The Fleet Foxes' Sun Giant EP album is a lush blend of baroque-folk-rock-choral harmonies. And, yes, the Beach Boys, CSNY...60s-70s pop influence is apparent.

The most obvious for me is "Drops in a River". The instrumentation barrows a lot from David Crosby's "Laughing". "English Home" has some Beach Boys phrasing. Listening to "Sun Giant" and "Mykonos", you get a hypnotic rhythm reminiscent of the pop tunes from the Zombies, the Association or the Youngbloods.

Lead singer/composer Robin Pecknold's lyrics have a post-modern, non-linear quality. At once, poetic and open to interpretation. I can certainly see the Pacific-Northwest region of the US in some of the lyrics.

Is the Sun Giant EP worth owning? Hey, if you like this genre of music or the Fleet Foxes other songs from their Fleet Foxes album, you'll want this one.

Despite their youth (early 20s), there's a maturity in their song-craft that belies their age. You can almost anticipate greater things are ahead for them. For now though, give these guys a listen and enjoy the brilliance of Sun Giant. I guarantee you'll be playing their songs over and over. I know I haven't since I first heard them on NPR. July 23, 2008

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