Bon Iver - Bon Iver

To say this album is highly anticipated would be an understatement. After releasing one of the most acclaimed debuts of 2008 and achieving such mass amounts of fame that even Kanye West took notice, where is Justin Vernon (aka Bon Iver) supposed to go next? Instead of letting his success go to his head, Vernon retreated once again to Wisconsin to work on his next album, a self-titled effort due out on June 21st. Instead of relying on his own talents, Vernon decided to hire bass saxophonist Colin Stetson and pedal-steel guitarist Greg Leisz, allowing for others to come in and shape his singer/songwriter sound. The end result is a incredible piece of work, with Vernon's uplifting voice taking on the role of conductor to a fleet of horns, guitars, and soft, thundering drums. Some early standouts include the the rumble of drums and bright, military-esque horns on "Perth," the intricate finger-picking guitar of "Minnesota, WI," the plinking piano melody on "Wash," and the fuzzy guitars of "Calgary." With Bon Iver, Vernon has moved past the bare bones sound of his debut into a new stage in his career, one that rightfully ditches his previous somber lyrics in favor of celebrating his triumphs and recent success.

DOWNLOAD: Bon Iver - Bon Iver [Jagjaguwar]
Recommended Tracks: "Perth," "Minnesota, WI," "Holocene," "Wash.," "Calgary."