One of the year's most anticipated releases, Grizzly Bear's Veckatimest, witnesses a relatively young band take to the studio with a veteran-like attitude. The feverish pitch of anticipation from bloggers and faithful fans alike is answered in an album that is meticulous in its production and lavish in its overall sound.

Upon first listen, the Brooklyn experimental pop/folk band Grizzly Bear grabs and doesn't let go. Here is real, accessible emotion and more than enough astounding talent to convey it. The group's spare acoustic melodies over plaintive piano figures and dusty strings with pop elements carry immense power.