The self-titled album's songs actually remind me more of some of My Morning Jacket's quieter moments, but those absolutely gorgeous harmonies and understated but pristine Phil Ek production gives the Foxes a pass on any musical pilfering - conscious or otherwise - that they may be accused of. Standouts include the downright pastoral "White Winter Hymnal" (which sounds as peaceful and beautiful as its' title), "Quiet Houses", and "Heard Them Strirring", just to name a few. Chief songwriter and frontman Ryan Pecknold waxes poetic throughout, and his lovely, muted takes on nature (human and otherwise), are unique and downright quaint.

I doubt if you'll find a more consistently beautiful listen all year long. Fleet Foxes sounds to me - right now, anyway - as an album that you'll wanna throw on to celebrate all the seasons, or just ponder things. An excellent album from start to finish.

Written by Dan Reed