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Mercury Rev The Secret Migration V2 2005 www.mercuryrev.net

Produced by Dave Fridmann, the former Mercury Rev bassist turned hotshot producer (Flaming Lips, Mogwai, Sparklehorse, Delgados, etc.), The Secret Migration is an auditory journey through a fairy-tale land of psychedelic imagery. For uninitiated listeners, vocalist Jonathan Donahue’s squeaky voice can take a little getting used to: at times similar to the Lips’ Wayne Coyne’s, but without the same command. Still, it’s distinctive, and, coupled with the whimsical, dreamy melodies often tinged with piano reverb, the album is reminiscent of British prog rock a generation ago.

The Secret Migration conveys a sense of intimacy through the sentimental tone of Donahue’s voice and the natural, fable-like imagery of the lyrics. The production is very polished and Fridmann’s done a masterful job of capturing the lush musical soundscapes for which the band is noted. Although there’s very little edge to the album’s proceedings, The Secret Migration is a sweeping aural experience that’s accessible to many ears.

Favorite Track: Track 5, “Vermillion”

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