Colin Meloy, nestled within his creative hub known as The Machine Shop, combines eclectic musical genres to craft the distinctive sound of The Decemberists.
The band’s frontman weaves folk, indie rock, prog rock, and baroque pop, generating a sound that’s both innovative and nostalgic.
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Credit: supplied
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Credit: supplied
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Credit: Getty
Storytelling through song, Meloy dips into history and folklore. The tale of a Spanish Infanta and a tale of a Japanese bride turning into a bird are among the enigmatic topics he explores with his craft.
However, it is the heroic and tragic figure of Joan of Arc that captures Meloy’s latest muse, a storied personality embodied in the song “Joan In The Garden.”
The vocals are probably the most challenging I’ve ever written.
This historical narrative unfolds through a 19-minute track, which Meloy finds to be one of his most demanding vocal endeavors. The Decemberists’ album titled ‘As It Ever Was, So It Will Be Again’ is their means of returning to their roots.
He describes the 13-track album as the epitome of their artistic journey thus far, reflecting profound introspection and evolution.
‘Psychedelic trip’
Meloy’s studio, which also serves as the setting for his online journal, is located on a farm near Portland, Oregon. Amidst discussions about his fascination with Joan of Arc, one can sense his intrigue with her multi-layered persona as it pertains to the modern discourse on identity and gender roles.
Joan, as an icon, an archetype and a myth, has always fascinated me and I guess she naturally found her way into a song.
Fascination with mortality and historical storytelling continues to pervade The Decemberists’ music, as does their penchant for pushing creative boundaries. Meloy emphasizes this point by comparing their approach to other works such as The Hazards Of Love, recalling their resolute attitude towards making music on their terms.
Hazards Of Love was our second record for Capitol, right after our major label debut (The Crane Wife) — and we insisted on making this weird, challenging thing.
Meloy’s extraordinary journey with The Decemberists has been one of impressive longevity and artistic integrity, producing music that stems from a deep place of curiosity and genuine creative fire.
THE DECEMBERISTS
As It Ever Was, So It Will Be Again
★★★★☆
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FAQs About Colin Meloy and The Decemberists
- What genres do The Decemberists incorporate in their music?
- The Decemberists blend folk, indie rock, prog rock, and baroque pop to create their unique sound.
- What is The Decemberists’ latest album titled?
- Their latest album is titled ‘As It Ever Was, So It Will Be Again’.
- What historical figure has recently inspired Colin Meloy in his songwriting?
- Joan of Arc has been Colin Meloy’s latest inspiration, prominently featuring in their 19-minute track “Joan In The Garden.”
- When is the new album ‘As It Ever Was, So It Will Be Again’ set to release?
- The album is set for release on June 14.
