If you’re a fan of a band, no matter the artist, Heaven is the album you wait for. It’s the album in a catalog of releases that you point to for identity. And that’s not to say its all downhill from here, hardly the case. But from the opening track “We Can’t Be Beat,” which is graced with harmonies from Fleet Foxes frontman Robyn Pecknold, there is warmth and grandeur that promises robust ambition. Musically it’s delightful as frontman Hamiton Leithauser croons amongst just a simple acoustic guitar lick and the backing harmonies. No, it’s not the typical approach from The Walkmen. However, it’s a statement song in that hints at musical maturity and boasts collective confidence. From there the album opens up to more of their true rock personality with standouts like “Love is Luck,” “Heartbreaker” and the title-track “Heaven.”

On Heaven The Walkmen capitalize on their ambition and come right to the capacity of realizing their own potential. Where you once really liked this band, Heaven may be the deal breaker to finally fall in love with this band. It’s a culmination of ten years of hard work and continuing to achieve more album by album.

Another Way To Support WXPN

Pick up Heaven from Amazon.com. Your purchase that starts here supports WXPN Public Radio.