Conor Oberst and the Mystic Valley Band vs. Fleet Foxes

Well folks, here it is, the best album of 2008, the self titled album from Omaha's favorite former heroin addict, Conor Oberst (and the Mystic Valley Band). Now I know what you are thinking, why didn't I just go with the easily loved Fleet Foxes masterpiece? Well there is one fundamental difference between these two folk albums. First-off, I would like to commend Fleet Foxes for creating something of such beauty and complexity. Their songs have a certain something that makes you feel as if you had been listening to them for years and their lyrics are nothing short of spectacular. Their subtle background vocals, in songs such as White Winter Hymnal, create a sort of ambience that follows you where ever you go; however, this is the fundamental difference between this album and Oberst's. 

The Bright Eyes lead man simply has more experience with over ten albums and five bands under his belt, his lyrics speak to the listener in ways other artists cannot. He has a way of making you feel as if he wants to let you in on a secret, and he trusts you not to tell, drawing you in with simple melodies and continually complex metaphors relating to religion, politics, philosophy and one anthem in which he refuses to die with out a smoke and a drink in his hand. The simplest ideas can seem al the more complex when written in the language of Oberst. 

To be honest, Fleet Foxes would have clinched this year's best album if only they did not have to contend with the greatness of Oberst. But do yourself a favor, check them both out and don't stop listening until you are satisfied, it is easier than you think to get lost in either album.