Christopher Owens’ story is known by most, but worth repeating for the few who are unaware of his past. Owens grew up in the Children of God cult until his teenage years. Prior to then, what little media he experience was severely limited. His past is more interesting than a single paragraph could capture. If you are more interested in what has shaped Owens from his past check out this interview–> http://www.faqmagazine.org/ChristopherGirls.htm It is very thorough and incredibly interesting. Learning about his tumultuous path makes understanding Girls and fully enjoying their music even easier.
Back in 2009 when Girls exploded into the blogosphere with a series of singles, and finally their debut album <em>Album</em>, they were immediately seen as musical geniuses in love with their craft. Their debut was seen as pure and near-perfect leading to recognition with their inclusion many Best Album of the Year lists. They followed their debut up with another stellar performance with the EP Broken Dreams Club. There was little reason to doubt <em>Father, Son, Holy Ghost</em> would disappoint.
Shortly after Girls announced the release of their sophomore album and third release their first single, Vomit (try googling that combination) made its way across the internet. One thing that was clear with this song is Girls were going to impress even more when the full album was released. A slow, emotional, ballad that emphasized Chris Owens’ lyrical prowess almost hauntingly backed up by an L.A. gospel choir half way through the track captivated many and pushed Girls to the forefront of everyone’s conversation. When the album was released it was everything Vomit promised it would be.
It is hard to know where to start because every track is great in its own right (except Die, I don’t particularly like that one). The record as a whole is special in what it portrays. While listening to it, you can’t help be feel as though this came straight out of the 1960’s pop scene, but at the same time feel so much more. Owens owns every song with is vocals accompanied by stunning guitar constantly. It is hard to give a better summary of the album than that. Simply put if you are only going to buy two albums (Bon Iver as the other of course) all year make sure it is this one, or at least listen to it in full. Your ears will love you.
WPGU Music Staff Rating: W-P-G-U
Key Tracks: “Vomit”, “Forgiveness” and the rest of them!
RIYL: Music at all! But honestly, Smith Westerns, Best Coast, Cults, Tennis
W = Poor
W-P = Fair
W-P-G = Great
W-P-G-U = An instant classic!
