Pinegrove

Marigold

Expertly crafted songs that are about getting better, if you want them to be.

There is baggage to Marigold, and for some it might prove a step too far. For those who feel otherwise inclined, there is much here to cherish.

What is clear is that the album adds to Pinegrove's growing status as one of the most talented recording and touring bands in the land

Marigold is an excellent portrayal of someone trying to get better, own up to his mistakes and move on in a healthy way for all parties involved.

This open and awed mindset is a shade that works perfectly for Pinegrove, whose countrified indie rock crackles with warmth and softness, casting Hall’s words with melodious compassion.

Marigold offers no major surprises or alterations in the band's sound, just quality songwriting and a rather remarkable consistency.

Hardcore fans will be happy the band have survived a crisis, but Marigold falters a bit under the weight of Hall’s relentless self-regard.

The New Jersey outfit's fourth album is their biggest departure to date: one of positivity and a drive to find a healthier mindset.

It's a record of choices, both the creative ones made by its contributors, and the ones we as listeners are forced to make.

On their fourth album, the indie-folk band still possess their signature warmth, but the charm of their heartfelt confessionals has dimmed.

In the wake of scandal, it sometimes seems as though Pinegrove have tried to record an album so boring and sensible that no one could think of anything to say about it.

Those who come to Pinegrove without knowing the backstory will find an album of pleasant alt-country that may not hit the heights of their back catalogue, but feels like a tentative step back to normality.