This is new. Sometimes I don’t have the time or motivation to write a full-blown review. That’s why starting today, I’m going to be introducing new Mini-Reviews! Like a real review, but a shitload shorter and hopefully a bit more concise and to the point. Enjoy

David Bazan
Curse Your Branches
Barsuk

Heart breaking and brutally honest in it’s delivery, Bazan cements himself as one of the most influential persons in the alternative christian movement, only to turn his back on everything he has known and believed for his entire life.

Subsequently, this makes “Curse Your Branches” an intensely depressing listen. Bazan continues to have a commanding ability in his lyricism, drawing the listener in and making his emotions real. The bleakness that is juxtaposed to upbeat and radiant instrumentation creates an awkward listening experience, ultimately climaxing at the albums closer “In Stitches” which ends “Curse Your Branches” with a sliver of desperate hope.

Regardless of where this album leads Bazan, one can only listen to “Curse Your Branches” as a necessary chapter in his journey through his existential crisis, hoping that it leads him to come out on the other end happier, and better off from it.

Download:: David Bazan – Bless This Mess [MP3]
Purchase | Myspace | Official