Shearwater: The Snow Leopard EP (2008)

New Wax


Matador recently put this digital EP from Shearwater containing some nice b-sides, live tracks, and radio recordings. The mini-album is built around "The Snow Leopard," which appeared on the band's critically drooled-over 2008 release Rook, and it also contains a handful of interesting covers. While the EP might not serve as the best introduction to the band, it's a sensible appendix to Rook and a must-have for devoted fans. Once a member of Okkervil River, Shearwater lead singer Jonathan Meiburg's voice is otherworldly and his backing band's arrangements approach a majestic beauty rarely accomplished by other bands. If you haven't had a chance to spend some time with Rook , I'd strongly suggest seeking it out. It's easily one of the best albums of the year and it's unparalleled in terms of sheer beauty. Once you've wrapped your brain around the grandeur and complexity of Rook , this EP makes a nice companion piece of supplementary material. -- Capt. Obvious