Calexico and Iron & Wine - Years to Burn (3SR)

June 14, 2019 - Sub Pop

In Years To Burn, Indie Folk Rock masters Calexico and Iron & Wine collaborate again on a new collection of ballads, and the album is highly variable, easy to listen to, and full of unexpected moments that shamelessly showcase their influences within and outside of the folk tradition (jazz, various Latin musical styles, Cat Stevens, and a sentimental, old-fashioned Southern waltz, to name a few). Like a jazz trio’s approach to solos, each artist’s strengths are highlighted individually throughout without breaking the cohesiveness of the body of work, and all artists are represented equally. They elevate each other—Calexico’s southwestern flavor, rock influence, and direct syntax keep the songs accessible, while Sam Beam’s storytelling prowess and magical realism maintains the mystery and intrigue. ☔