B+
Josh Tillman might not be a name that many people know, and his stage name Father John Misty isn’t much more distinguished. But this folk rocker has an extensive musical history, serving as drummer for indie band Fleet Foxes for a few years; however, his music often flies under the radar due to its obscurity.
With his new album “I Love You, Honeybear,” that should change. The album explores a considerable breadth of dark subject matter, ranging from personal insecurities to commitment issues and heartbreak.
Tillman’s utter disregard for typically-obeyed lyrical cues could not fit better with his soft folk style. Touching on themes that many artists avoid, he manages to make the music flow gracefully by attaching otherwise downright depressing lyrics to mellow melodies.
The album isn’t limited to folk, however, because Tillman manages to work some electronica and psychedelic rock into his tunes. “True Affection” borders on the edge of dance music, while still managing to keep with the overarching theme of the album. He uses falsetto and repetition to mix up the style a bit, and the song as a whole is a reminder that there are people struggling beside you through every one of life’s challenges.
Other songs are more reminiscent of the Beatles and other '60s-style rock. “The Night Josh Tillman Came to Our Apartment” and “The Ideal Husband” convey his deep sense of sarcasm and hints of jealous anger. A lot of the songs are lamenting ballads, criticizing himself and society for expectations and emptiness.
Contrary to what some of the song titles suggest (e.g. “Holy Sh*t”), Father John Misty’s frugal use of foul language and taboo substance is appropriate and well-placed. The content, as well as the execution of the songs is refreshing.
But don’t despair — although much of the album is spent wading through pools of heart wrenching anguish, each song seems to leave the listener with a brief moment of hopeful bliss. The singer’s blatant, unabashed admittance of his personal failures make surprise appearances in the lyrics, but something about Tillman’s smooth voice is calming and reassuring, despite the misery that most of his songs imply.
Father John Misty mentions all facets of subconscious desire and slips in the occasional criticism of pop culture, and he succeeds at producing an intoxicatingly mellow album, rich with thought-provoking lyrics and sprinkled with stylistic originality and metaphor-laden genius.