Great Lakes Myth Society--Compass Rose Bouquet

Well known for their folk-rock-that-actually-rocks style, Michigan’s Great Lakes Myth Society has garnered a substantial fan base from their self-titled debut in 2005. Just as their first release delved into Midwest mythology and folklore utilizing a blend of folk, rock, and classic instrumentals, so too does their sophomore release Compass Rose Bouquet waltz through one’s ear. Much like The Elected or Band of Horses, Great Lakes Myth Society carries with them a folk-mentality and country-air influence, while still cranking out songs that lodge themselves inside your brain. Such is the case for “Heydeys” and “Debutante”, both composed by Timothy Monger whose tracks lean more heavily towards ear-pleasing pop. Blended in nicely with these bouncy tunes are James Christopher Monger’s folk tunes (i.e. “Summer Bonfire” and “Days of Apple Pie”) which sound more like a brighter Iron & Wine. By no means is this composure division set in stone, and the line between them is very blurry, yet this blending of styling’s separates Great Lakes Myth Society from other previously mentioned folk-rock indie acts. While their track titles and lyrics remind one of a Decemberists’ album (the folk sea-chantey “The Gales of 1838”, tales of whiskey and woe in “Queen of the Barley Fool”, and a Shins-like melody of love’s awkward beginnings in “Nightfall at Electric Park”), the vocal and instrumental styles are different throughout. Also, like their earlier debut, Compass Rose Bouquet is laced throughout with the presence of Midwestern forests and sleepy lakeshore plains. “Raindrops & Roses” plays with these themes brilliantly, and is a wonderful microcosm of the entire album. Folk vocals sing of “dew drops” and “going down with the rest of the mast”, all layered over instrumentals which blend classical elements of brass and acoustic guitar with electric guitar solos and catchy licks. It’s a delicate dance, but one Great Lakes Myth Society excels at. A fascinating step forward from Michigan’s Great Lakes Myth Society, Compass Rose Bouquet features well-developed songs with mystical lyrics that will certainly take their place as some of the best folk-indie of 2007. A must-have for fans of The Elected, The Decemberists, Band of Horses, Iron & Wine, and British Sea Power.

(Published in Soundcheck Magazine)