Michael Patrick Brady

My review of Akron/Family’s Set ‘Em Wild, Set ‘Em Free ran today in the Boston Phoenix.

The band has largely moved away from its noisy, psych-driven songs toward placid folk, and in this case, it has really paid off. This album has the feeling of parting clouds, like the band has emerged from a dismal and depressed state into a full-blown manic episode. Their voices sound so full and confident, especially on “The River,” where the three members trade vocals back and forth. It’s the sound of happy people making happy music without sounding cheesy or affected.