Lord Huron Stay Optimistic In "Vide Noir"

Chasing after a dream is as rewarding as it is difficult, and there are times along the way where you may consider turning back. Something propels you forward, however, because you know you haven't found the answer you're looking for yet. Lord Huron stay optimistic in Vide Noir as they battle that same idea, moving forward until they find what they're looking for.

There's an underdog vibe to Vide Noir that gives it that extra sense of strife. It's lo-fi production pairs very nicely with its indie textures, the warm cheer of 'Never Ever' really radiating out of the music in a perfect way as a result. Vide Noir is never brought down by this; in fact, it makes it stand out amongst the rest. Opening song 'Lost In Time and Space' makes you feel exactly as the title describes, introducing you to the idea of the journey to find an answer while you drift unknowingly forward, ready to find an answer, wherever it may be. Finding love is a bit part of what Lord Huron searches for, and explores the idea from several angles: the vibe of 'Wait By The River' bringing a warmer sense of togetherness, the sweet 'When The Night Is Over' crying out with desperation to find a love they've lost, and in 'Moonbeam' where infatuation leads to manipulation.

While Lord Huron's album focusses primarily on the hunt, the music keeps the adventure interesting. The two 'Ancient Names' tracks are very different while still working to serve a bigger, longing whole. Verse two of 'Ancient Names, Pt. I' cries out, "Far out past the astral plane / I cast you back from whence you came / Cosmic ash and blackened brain / I call you by your ancient names," its folky, upbeat delivery giving it some drive as if it's trying to escape the clutches of something that's holding them down. By the end, the song becomes a more mysterious piece with synths reverberating questioningly, leading quickly into the big, jamming 'Ancient Names, Pt. II.' Title track 'Vide Noir' also takes the mysterious route, adding a groovy rhythm into the mood as well. 'Back From The Edge' brings a more confident, anthemic presence to the table, adding life to an album that sounded increasingly hopeless with every song.

Lord Huron stay optimistic in Vide Noir, trying to find answers to questions that have haunted them. The music discusses love, infatuation, and your own being, and it's lo-fi production providing the perfect underdog vibe to keep you on the path to achieving your dream, no matter how impossible it may seem. These broken anthems serve as the encouragement to continue forward.

Favorite Tracks: When The Night Is Over; Ancient Names, Pt. II

Least Favorite Track: Never Ever

Rating: 76 / 100

Stream or buy Vide Noir on Apple Music, and follow our 2018 Playlist on Spotify: