Grey Oceans

Upon first listen, the intimate mewling of the Casady sisters seems playful and beguiling, as if every word were sprinkled with pixie dust. The sisters breathe in childish whispers that evoke Björk’s early ingénue in all its youthful mischief and simple sincerity. Their first album, 2004’s La Maison de Mon Reve, showcased this approach wonderfully, with a velvety collection of unadorned pop creations that combined operatic cate rwauling with soft-spoken poetry into intricate folk songs set against arrhythmic percussion. For the follow-up, they purposely set out to work against type, delivering 2005’s Noah’s Ark, an album that boldly strayed into darker territory, while 2007’s The Adventures of Ghosthorse and Stillborn revealed an even more unhinged side.

Full Review | More Reviews from Publication | Top Rated of 2010

What would CocoRosie have to do at this point for you to change your mind about them? One of the world's biggest cult acts remains one of its most divisive. Whether it's their absurd cover art, affected vocals, one-time affiliations with too-ironic parties, or their many famous friends, something about CocoRosie causes grudges to be held. To be honest, I wish I could let that baggage get me worked up about Grey Oceans-- music is most fun when it inspi res strong feelings. Instead, CocoRosie's least abrasive record to date merely disappoints softly.

Full Review | More Reviews from Publication | Top Rated of 2010