On The Lumineers III, Folk Pop Outfit Continue Perfecting Radio Formula (ALBUM REVIEW)

The Lumineers obviously have a lot to live up to. Ever since they released their eponymous break-out album in 2012, they have been able to further their reputation as a mainstream folk-pop outfit with a decided penchant for garnering populist appeal. Their early hit “Ho Hey” practically lit up the airwaves, not to mention its slew of media placements, and the band’s sophomore set Cleopatra proved equally auspicious. Nevertheless, with a relatively scant two-album catalog representing them thus far, it was imperative that the third effort proved the proverbial charm.

Fortunately, there’s no reason to worry. The Lumineers III — the band obviously likes their album titles short and to the point — maintains the group’s fondness for providing hushed melodies that quietly build, billow and then conclude with majesty and grace. That said, most of the songs maintain a decidedly hollow-eyed sound, one that requires the listener to lean in and patiently wait for the songs to reach a crescendo. Happily, it’s well worth the indulgence. Even the most bare-bones set-ups — “Donna,” the tellingly titled “It Wasn’t Easy To Be Happy With You,” “My Cell,” and bonus track “Democracy” — are affectingly emotive and graced with an easy allure. Theirs is a stoic sound at times — It often takes little more than piano to set up the scenario — but inevitably, the melodies manage to reach an anthemic conclusion capable of rewarding those willing to share in the somber sentiment. As for anyone hoping for a replay of the perky “Ho Hey,” they’ll likely find what they search for with the rousing repast of “Gloria,” which, along with another bonus bonanza track, “Soundtrack Song,” provide the most uptempo offerings overall.

Happily then, it’s fair to say that despite moments of decided sobriety, The Lumineers III maintains the band’s short yet exceptional track record and keeps them three for three. The ability to continually achieve that high bar hasn’t failed The Lumineers thus far, and all indications are that they’ll remain up to the task in the future.

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