Ezra Bell is a band. One that has shifted personnel with some frequency over the course of three EPs. So it's hard to say if the lineup on this, its first full-length, is permanent. Vocalist Benjamin Wuamett has been around for the entire trip (and given his unusual delivery, "vocalist" is the correct term), and he's got a big hand in the songwriting.

Ezra Bell Ezra Bell (self-released)

Oh, those songs. The palette used by Ezra Bell may be more americana-ish than just about any other americana sort of band. There are the requisite folk, primitive country and blues, sure, but also strong lines of Dixieland jazz, indie rock and even math rock. All folded into a raucously buoyant, largely acoustic sound.

Acoustic until the electric piano (or any number of other elements) drop in. Some bands are purists. Ezra Bell is a polymath. It plays music. Good music. And if you don't like it, shove off.

That punk attitude gives many of these songs an insouciant air, and that is exactly the right way to play. Play the music for yourself and if someone likes it, great. Ezra Bell should have no problems on that end, however. I think it would be more challenging to dislike this album than it is to love it unreservedly. A tumble into greatness.

Jon Worley