As only a duo, the Dodos are more than capable to make quite a bit of noise without needing the aid of effects or studio gadgets. Their 2007 release Visiter, was a refreshing piece of rhythmic psychedelic folk pop that showcased the two members' abilities on their respected instruments (guitar, drums). For Time To Die, a vibraphone (some kind of hybrid xylophone/marimba thing) was added as well as the help (production-wise) of Phil Ek (The Shins, Band of Horses, Fleet Foxes). While not quite up to par with Visiter, Time To Die does come off as another album that displays the spastic yet controlled drumming of Logan Kroeber as well as the quick strumming/fingerpicking style of Meric Long. However, the noticeable difference between the aforementioned albums is the assistance of Ek. Studio tricks are added here and there (occasional feedback, faux-electric instruments) as are vocal harmonizations and the echoey vocal effect that is oh-so-characteristic of Band of Horses . While some of the songs drag on a little too long, things are kept so the tracks often end at different places than where they began ("The Strums" runs the spectrum of styles in the Dodo's repetoire). The overall effort on Time To Die is sure to garner deserved attention especially for fans of Ek's work and interested in expanding their musical horizons.
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