Review: Iron & Wine - Kiss Each Other Clean by Sarah Lacasse

Imagine if you will, that you stand located in the middle of a lush forest. Towering trees, and wildlife surround you. You hear a rustling in the distance and soon after a man emerges from the brush. The man has a guitar slung over his back and sports an unkempt beard. He continues past you, easily navigating the ground, which is strewn with fallen branches. You stare after him a while, in awe of his beardly glory, before making the decision to follow him. As you trace the steps of the strange man, you happen upon a cabin from which a soothing melody seeps. The song whispers in your ear as the man caresses the guitar and breathes storytelling lyrics. The song ends softly and you press your ear hard against the wooden door, aching to hear more of his art.

The scene that you have just pictured is a representation of Iron & Wine’s previous musical style. Sam Beam has been known for simplistic songs consisting of only his rustic voice and rhythmic guitar riffs. Sam Beam usually goes solo, but occasionally his sister’s dulcet voice adds subtle harmonies, giving his sound beautiful depth.

On January 25th, Iron & Wine released its first album in three years. Many loyal Iron & Wine fans (including myself) anticipated the album titled “Kiss Each Other Clean,” but were shocked at Sam Beam’s new sound. Remember that peaceful log cabin? Now picture that same cabin, but rather than nestled in the quiet forest, it is smack in the middle of Dundas Square. Under any other circumstances, you probably wouldn’t much care that big city and quaint country were being meshed. The little log

house in the middle just doesn’t look right being at the centre of such a loud, bustling place.

“Kiss Each Other Clean” is exactly that misplaced log cabin. Sam Beam’s voice is lost amidst a slew of effects and various instruments. Had this album been released under any other name, I would say to myself “This album is really original; there is a strange mix of instruments and some interesting effects.” My opinion is certainly affected by my preconceived ideas of what Iron & Wine’s music should sound like. I give my respect to Sam Beam for trying out something new, and executing it successfully, however this is not the album that I was awaiting for three years. For that reason, I give “Kiss Each Other Clean” three and a half beards out of five.

Written by Sarah Lacasse
contact: sarahrlacasse@gmail.com

Listen:
Iron & Wine - Kiss Each Other Clean on Spotify
Iron & Wine official home page