These twelve tracks are full, they’re self-aware, they’re straight up funny, and it’s these traits that immediately separate Father John Misty’s folk-rock from what Fleet Foxes do.
'Fear Fun' is a country-leaning, wise-cracking masterwork.
If Fleet Foxes, or indeed, beardy folk/roots music in general, leave you cold, then you probably won't find much to enjoy with Father John Misty.
It's clear from the start with the gorgeous opener, "Funtimes in Babylon," that Tillman's is a singular talent
Ultimately, it’ll be hard to find a more awe-inspiring album this year than Fear Fun. This is a record that deserves a spot in just about any contemporary music collection.
Fear Fun's deft mix of folly and grandeur strikes a nice balance between the over the top hippie shenanigans of Edward Sharpe & the Magnetic Zeros and the vapid, calculated debauchery of Lana Del Ray.
Tillman soaks up the sounds, smells, and free-floating strangeness of his environment, and revels in its humanity.
Tillman varies things up on Fear Fun, reveals an adventurous palette, and makes what may be his best album to date.
A striking, adept piece made accessible by Tillman’s clear-as-a-bell voice, Fear Fun is the ideal companion for a weird headspace.
With a few exceptions it's middle of the road music for middle aged middle managers.
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#15 | / | FILTER |
#16 | / | American Songwriter |
#20 | / | BBC |
#22 | / | Obscure Sound |