Flags of the Sacred Harp

Flags of the Sacred Harp is a comeback album of sorts, released after a hiatus in the band's activity and a lineup reconfiguration that sees the return of Nudge leader Honey Owens and the arrival of guitarist Adam Forkner. The break was beneficial, because this is the group's tightest, most pleasant album to date. What strikes first is the song orientation: at least five of the seven pieces can be rightfully called songs. That said, fans of the group's experimental side need not worry. The 16-minute instrumental "Spirit" aptly illustrates that persona of Jackie-O, while a song like "Nice One" develops into looser sections that surely couldn't be interpreted as a sellout decision. "Nice One" opens the album and pins down the mood that will prevail over the next 70 minutes: drugged folk guitar, druggier vocals, highly creative developments. Its catchy chorus is counterbalanced by the equally gripping abstractions of the second half. Two of the three tracks under the ten-minute barrier, "Rockaway" and "Hey Mr. Sky," provide two highlights, the first one thanks to its country feel, the second one for its psychedelic pop leanings, good vocal delivery, and obvious fun. Chaotic drumming and backward tapes kick off "The Louder Roared the Sea." Then, the piece boils down to a delicate acoustic guitar ballad sung by Owens, before a symphony of vinyl (or tapes) joins in for the mock-pompous finale. The more you listen to Flags of the Sacred Harp, the less improvised it sounds, even in its spacier moments. The Jackie-Os are honing their songwriting skills, and it shows. Recommended. ~ François Couture, Rovi