Father John Misty – I Love You, Honeybear – Album Review

Father John Misty really didn’t make sense to me. He released the 2012 album Fear Fun, to little acclaim or excitement. He played gigs in small venues that didn’t sell out and continued plying his trade, and yet, it really shouldn’t have been this way. He was a member of quite a big rock band, in Fleet Foxes, so had paid his dues. He was on the right label in Sub Pop. His lyrics were smart and funny, and the music melodic and well constructed (if a little bit safe). Roll the calender on three years and it’s now 2015, so what has the bold J Tillman delivered for us? Pretty much more of the same. And the world’s reaction? Well, people are starting to sit up and take notice. He’s now sold out a gig in Whelans and has another one lined up for the substantially bigger venue of Vicar Street for November 24th  of this year. I guess it just took the world a while to figure it out, but at least things are making sense now.

‘And the neighbors are complaining
That the misanthropes next door
Are probably conceiving a Damien
Don’t they see the darkness rising?
Good luck fingering oblivion
We’re getting out now while we can’ – I love you, Honeybear

He certainly has a way with lyrics. They stem from a dark and twisted place, where something not very nice lives, but they’re laugh out loud funny at times. The odd thing is that you hardly notice this contorted vision in amongst the brash 70’s rock arrangements. They are largely guitar based, with the odd flourish and a touch of swagger. A brass section raises the roof in Chateau Lobby #4. True affection is a touch of electro pop, that doesn’t sit comfortably amongst its friends. The general stance is unrestrained, fun and playful. Bored in the USA could become the anthem for the disaffected generation, if they could be arsed picking one. Possibly not the type of album that is suited for a long term relationship, but definitely a fun night between the sheets.

‘They gave me useless education
And a sub-prime loan on a craftsman home
Keep my prescriptions filled
And now I can’t get off but I can kind of deal‘ – Bored in the USA

1. “I Love You, Honeybear” 4:38
2. “Chateau Lobby #4 (in C for Two Virgins)” 2:50
3. “True Affection” 3:56
4. “The Night Josh Tillman Came to Our Apartment” 3:36
5. “When You’re Smiling and Astride Me” 4:34
6. “Nothing Good Ever Happens at the Goddamn Thirsty Crow” 4:34
7. “Strange Encounter” 4:19
8. “The Ideal Husband” 3:35
9. “Bored in the USA” 4:22
10. “Holy Shit” 4:01
11. “I Went to the Store One Day” 4:26