Bon Iver EP shows hints of greatness

Justin Vernon's latest project searches for new ideas.

By Andrew Terry

Published Jan. 26, 2009

After hiding in the woods and abandoning society for six months, Justin Vernon managed to create his own personal Walden. Now Bon Iver, Vernon's musical project, is set to turn heads with its new EP Blood Bank.

Hailing from Wisconsin, Vernon is a product of a couple of indie bands that had moderate success. Vernon left these bands because of a bad relationship.

He decided to isolate himself in a Wisconsin cabin. There he spent most of his time with simple chores, but his hibernation slowly led to a new musical direction. He wrote the feelings trapped inside him, creating For Emma, Forever Ago.

The album tears at the heart of the listener, citing a deep sadness that is perpetuated by Vernon's high voice, which cries out against his freak-folk backing.

Vernon was able to juxtapose a solitary guitar with eerie electronic drones, while playing a lot of emotional chord changes that capture the audience with a sense of intimacy.

Although he did not intend for the album to be released, Vernon decided to put it out after positive reactions from friends. The album garnered success and was eventually released under the label Jagjaguwar. It's since been considered one of the best albums of 2008.

Since then, Vernon has been touring, playing small venues to astonished crowds.

This is the momentum Vernon carries into his new EP, Blood Bank, a more inventive and seemingly less folky approach to his signature flair.

The EP is composed of four songs totaling approximately 17 minutes, but there is still no shortage of new, fresh ideas. Unlike For Emma, Forever Ago, Vernon brings out more than just his guitar and light backing. He seems a little more comfortable with his ability to explore musical writings. With the use of piano, lap steel, electric guitar and more, Vernon presents us with a more expanded and eclectic mix of songs than before.

The opening song for which the EP is named, "Blood Bank," captivates its audience. The song crescendos and decrescendos until the last minute, when a powerful instrumental finish breaks through.

"Beach Baby" follows up as a traditional Bon Iver song complete with solo guitar and reverbed vocals. There is something about the simple Bon Iver songs that taps into that emotional well of songwriting.

"Babys" is the one song that stands out because it is an unusual direction for Vernon to take. It opens and continues for nearly two minutes of a single piano chord played repeatedly and then leads into lyrics.

The fourth and final song, "Woods" contains electronic and layered vocals that wouldn't feel out of place in a Daft Punk song.

Even with the (slightly) different direction of the EP, it is still a solid addition to Bon Iver's already impressive record. We can only sit idly by and wait for what is sure to be a fantastic sophomore effort.