Bird whistles new album, response same as rest of work

Anyone familiar with “The Muppets,” released in November of last year, may remember a pivotal plot point where Walter does an impressive whistle solo, taking the audience by storm. This solo, titled “Whistling Caruso,” was written by Andrew Bird, and is probably the best technical example of his exceptional whistling ability. After writing this and another song for the album, a cover of “It’s Not Easy Being Green,” many were wondering where such a successful artist would go next in his diverse musical landscape. Would he pull from his solo career and show tribute to the vast American and English folk music that heavily influenced him? Or would he move in a new direction, re-inventing himself as he did with Armchair Apocrypha? While “Break It Yourself,” his latest album, isn’t necessarily a departure from anything he has done before, it is still the best record he has released to date.
The greatest aspect of this carefully crafted album is that Bird is subtle; he doesn’t abuse his instrumental prowess. For example, “Lazy Projector” combines many of the typical qualities of a Bird song, but refines them. Yes, the whistle solo is there, the drummer uses brushes, and the violin is as prominent as ever. Yet the solo is understated; melancholy, deliberate and thoughtful, just like the lyrics, which highlights another advancement in Bird’s catalogue. “Lazy Projector” is full of metaphors and unique imagery, making a statement about the faulty memory of human beings.
The final line epitomizes this thought, as Bird sings out “It’s all in the hands of a lazy projector. That forgetting, embellishing, lying machine.”
Bird is truly a musical savant. His advanced education from Northwestern is apparent in songs like “Desperation Breeds…” and “Danse Carribe,” where his interesting arrangement and solos truly exemplify themselves. In past albums Bird had the tendency to solo too music, covering the beauty of his art as if he were unsure of where to take it. However, he has hit his stride and found the perfect balance.
Not to say that Bird’s solos detract from the music. In fact, Bird’s instrumental ability is the main reason why this album is one of the best of the year. From the instrumental piece “The Things Behind the Barn,” to the chill inducing “Hole in the Ocean Floor,” Bird shows his wide range of skill. He plays many different types of instruments, such as the violin, guitar, and even glockenspiel, all of which add a sense of depth to an already inflated album.
While many have complained that Bird has too often focused on crafting “pop” songs, no one can listen to this album and finish thinking the same thing. Bird has definitely matured. Not to say that his previous attempts were “immature.” It is more like he is a fine wine: he has aged extremely well, and the entire sound that was there before has now reached its peak. “Break it Yourself” is a very complex and rewarding album traversing a world of wilting, melancholy sounds and uplifting ballads, ultimately resulting in a fantastic listening experience.