Book of Canada by Fonograph (Review)

Fonograph’s Brian Carlstrom has a sensitive, sensual voice and the band plays well; during the opener “Canada,” certain vocal swoops bring Radiohead’s Thom Yorke to mind. “Progression” is a storming song, much aided by Jenny Vallier’s cello as Carlstrom sings “I am feeling too much” like a man possessed. “Love & Commerce” is reflective and again shows the band’s love for Radiohead. “Sober” is as lovely as anything gets these days with Vallier’s cello spinning strange patterns and Carlstrom singing as if he’s in love with his own sorrow.

Fonograph are hardly overwhelmed by the bands they have been influenced by, though. They don’t copy, but rather are inspired by them. Other than the band I’ve already mentioned twice, I detect traces of Jeff Buckley, Red House Painters, and maybe one of those British bands like Elbow or Turin Brakes. Book of Canada is a fine album and it shows Fonograph at their best.

Written by Anna Maria Stjärnell.