With Grizzly Bear, the joy and satisfaction come from hearing how each elaborate layer of instrumentation interacts with each other. More so than on any other record, the band embraces a controlled sense of chaos with a sharper edge, like the busy coda on “Half Gate”. Immensely talented drummer Christopher Bear is given a much deserved spotlight, as Shields is a very drum-heavy composition. On the piano-driven “A Simple Answer,” Rossen delivers his impassioned, soulful vocals and rough, intricately woven guitar arpeggios, while Droste’s airy voice soars in harmony. Available on clear vinyl (exclusive to indie retailers), classic black vinyl, and an exclusive color via Vinyl Me Please. Maintaining a sense of symmetry on this cohesive ten-track record, the first five tracks are clearly delineated as either Droste’s or Rossen’s, (depending on who sings lead), while the second half perfectly marries both songwriters’ style and tone in a Lennon-McCartney-esque fashion. Grizzly Bear celebrate the 15th anniversary of their second album Yellow House with a re-cut repress of the double LP. Shields is delectable in the way it gracefully presents the enticing songwriting dynamic between Ed Droste and Daniel Rossen. Sonically mesmerizing and exhilarating, the album is chock full of synthesizers, horns, and strings, in addition to Grizzly Bear’s standard lineup of guitars, bass, drums and shimmering harmonies. With each new record, Grizzly Bear has the ability to maintain their signature sound, while redefining themselves through experimentation. Following a three year gap since the critically acclaimed 2009 release, Veckatimest, the four piece Brooklyn band have truly ventured into uncharted territory with Shields.
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