Album Review: Tarpits and Canyonlands by Bombadil

August 26, 7:53 PMRaleigh Indie Music ExaminerJustin Weber

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Tarpits and Canyonlands

I first happened upon Bombadil a few years ago.  Being the nerd that I am, I immediately took notice of the Lord of the Rings reference.  It's dangerous to name a band after such a beloved character, especially one that has invokes such vivid imagery.  The name itself inspires thoughts of walks through farmland not much different from our North Carolina home except, of course, for the occasional hobbit.  

Bombadil.  The word could almost act as an onomonopia for the band's music.  Just like the word, their music  is fun and bops around a bit.  It's elusive and playful, a bit sly even, but not in a devious way.  I feel as if Bombadil has discovered the secret to carefree joy and captured it in these fleeting songs.  While the rest of us cock our heads and listen for it, Bombadil smiles knowingly and patiently continues to play until the rest of us catch up and let go.  

There are many different ways to judge a record.  Some of them are very cerebral and academic; others are more instinctual.  Often times I will put on a record in the background while I do chores the first time I listen to it.  When I put Bombadil's Tarpits and Canyonlands on, I found myself stopping and listening to nearly every track, going as far to even tap my foot and sway my shoulders.  It was a sure sign that this record had the makings of something special.  Of course, at first glance inflatable pools are also fun, but after a while wading up to your kneecaps isn't fun.  I needed to see if this record had a deep end.  

I've found this to be one of the most complete records I've had the pleasure of listening to (and I'm not saying that just because these are hometown boys from Durham).  Tarpits and Canyonlands has the just as many unique and interesting qualities as the geological features it is named after.  

"Sad Birthday" rises and falls.  By the time the claps come in, they've already won me over.  "Reasons", with its slowing rolling verses and chorus and wonderful lyrics, is a near perfect sentimental ballad.  "So Many Ways to Die" builds into an inspiring and life affirming anthem as the band sings "you are exactly who you choose/you're only lying to you".  Musically, my favorite moment comes with "Laurita".  The latin shuffle shows off the band's versatility and is simply fun.

I know I'm a bit late to this band wagon as this album came out in early July.  However, with an album this great, better late than never.  So if you've missed out on it too, don't be embarrassed, just give it a listen.