March 26, 2002 by A.S. Van Dorston

The Walkmen are comprised of ex-members of The Recoys and Jonathan Fire*Eater, a much-hyped New York band that was burned by high expectations and a mismatched relationship with a major label that couldn’t have marketed them beyond their cult following if they tried. Older and wiser, The Walkmen focus on what’s really important — the music. Having built their own recording studio with remaining JFE money, they were to take their time and experiment and develop a completely new, unique voice. The teasingly short opener “They’re Winning” starts out like it might become a glorious Pogues tune, but stops just as it begins to build up. “Wake Up” establishes the essence of The Walkmen’s sound — spare drums, brittle-to-chiming guitars, muted piano, and Hamilton Leithauser’s strong voice, which evokes alternatively Bono circa-October, or Iggy Pop.

The rest of the album relentlessly tweaks this formula with dazzling results, starting with the anthemic title track, with an ambient drone, kinetic drums and a soaring vocal melody. “Revenge Wears No Wristwatch” is even better, the simple two-chord guitar gives an unassuming base for more of Letihauser’s breathtaking melodies. Briefly, the energy reverts back to the guitar, creating a burst of Wedding Present fury. “The Blizzard Of ’96” focuses on the piano and a variety of percussion, giving it the melancholy yet magical feel of being snowed in. “We’ve Been Had” continues the effect, but with more forceful hooks and melodies, making it single-worthy in an alt-universe. Every song reveals it’s own specific, well-written treasures that it’s difficult to agree what the best tracks are. Which makes it one of the most consistent albums this year. Other New York bands like Interpol may be more accessible, Radio 4 more blustery and The Liars unruly, but The Walkmen appear to be the most deeply talented, and destined for great things. Keep this fantastic, wintry album on heavy rotation ’til Spring, or when the next Nick Cave album comes out, whichever comes first.

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