I was kind of on the edge of my seat the first time I listened, waiting for the songs to you know...break open....but like some others, I miss that banjo and Seth's beautiful mean guitar and especially that "Something" (that there just isn't a word for!) that makes my eyes roll back in my head as I sing/scream along! For me, the drums and piano distract from the indescribable pure talent of this band. I guess I prefer all things strings! But LYRICALLY, I'm there. And I'm happy that the Avett story continues through the words of their songs.

On first impression, I am not loving it.... but to be fair, I admit that I haven't given this album the opportunity to blow me away yet, thus I'm still riding the proverbial fence....but I will give it a chance with open ears, mind & heart.

I've listened to everything Avett I could get my hands on, seen them in many different venues, watched stuff on the internet for hours on end (if you haven't seen the npr tiny desk concert, PLEASE don't cheat yourself and watch it right now!)...I've been a fan for years and we all know that there's no turning away once you've been exposed to their talent.....seeing a live show can really change a person!!!

So I might not love this album and it might not be my favorite, but...the band I love and yes, they are my favorite! Maybe this album doesn't do it for me, BUT IF IT GRABS JUST ONE PERSON WHO'S NEVER HEARD THE BROS BEFORE....THEN IT'S ALL GOOD!!