Camera Obscura’s forthcoming album — their first album in nearly three years – isn’t due to hit shelves until April 21st, but NPR is offering a full album stream of My Maudlin Career starting at tonight at midnight as part of their Exclusive First Listen Series.  The stream will be available up until the release of the record, which will be on their new label 4AD.  You can access the link to the stream right here.

Back in February, we got a taste of the new record when the title track was released, which was then followed by a music video for the official single “French Navy.”  I never got around to posting the video, which I would almost consider essential to watch at this point since it’s just so damn cute.  That is, if you consider watching a couple taking a jaunt through Europe, filled with lots of kissing, cuddling, and other things of that ilk as cute.  Well, I do, damn it!

MP3: Camera Obscura :: “My Maudlin Career”

photo: Jeremy Farmer

It’s a cold, late night over here at TYS headquarters, as I fumble around at my desk looking for something occupy my time.  I remember hearing that NPR has been offering an exclusive preview of Andrew Bird’s new album, Noble Beast — due out on January 20th — so I figured this would be the best opportunity to finally listen to this one.

Let’s just be clear, i’m a huge fan of Andrew Bird, as I consider him to be one of the most talented musicians working in music right now.  A virtuoso at nearly every instrument he touches, and one of the most unique and engaging performers i’ve ever had the pleasure of watching in person.  That being said, i’m not sure why I haven’t been itching at the bit to listen to this new album.  I mean, I really liked Armchair Apocrypha, but I felt there was something missing from a lot of the songs — namely, two of his signature talents, his incredible whistling and violin ability.  Sure, it was there in some capacity, but a majority of the songs where these were clearly absent, just felt lifeless to put it simply.

After listening to this entire stream of the new record, I can safely say that these two major components are heavily showcased, and rightfully heard from the very beginning.  It’s kind of odd listening to this as I type since it’s usually one or the other, as I am terrible at multitasking in any way, shape, or form.  Maybe that’s a testament to this album’s strength, as it completely works as perfect background music, while still remaining somewhat engaging.  Songs seem to blend into one another, with little moments of whistling or violin plucking that seamlessly brings your attention back into the album.

I almost want to just open my window and let any person that happens to be walking by to just hear just a small sample of this genius at work.  Can’t wait to finally have this album in my hands.

If you haven’t listened to this full album stream yet, than put aside some time and kick back and enjoy this gorgeous record.

MP3: Andrew Bird :: “Heretics”
MP3: Andrew Bird :: “A Nervous Tic Motion Of The Head To The Left”
MP3: Andrew Bird :: “Imitosis (Four Tet remix)”
MP3: Andrew Bird :: “Skin Is, My (Live in Montreal)”