Grade: A
The sixth album from folk-rock band The Decemberists, “The King is Dead,” is a unique blend of folk, blues and modern indie influences. The album opens with “Don’t Carry it All,” a Bob Dylan-esque track rich with harmonicas and soulful story-telling lyrics. Many of the songs on the album have a hopeful tone, but several tracks are slower, and lead singer Colin Meloy’s voice paints mesmerizing pictures throughout. The album also benefits from collaborations with R.E.M.’s Peter Buck, which adds a unique touch to their already solid sound.