Originally from Louisville, Kentucky, cult heroes My Morning Jacket, have made a cottage industry out of keeping people guessing. Their six-strong back catalogue is comprised of albums that differ greatly from one to the next. Little surprise, then, that The Waterfall is a record that takes them into a different space again.
Lyrically things are dark. Frontman Jim James has explained the title as a reference to “life constantly beating you down.” The sonic expanse of the album, on the other hand – from Fleetwood Mac-esque pop hooks and impressive guitar swells to the cosmic presence of James’ vocals – produces something considerably brighter.
‘Compound Fracture’, one of the record’s obvious highlights, is the perfect example; it might draw on the serious injuries James sustained in a fall from stage in 2008, but is wrapped in a stylish sheen of which Rilo Kiley would be proud. Dark one moment, upbeat the next, the record takes the listener on an emotional journey. It’s a thrilling ride, no matter that motion sickness is a constant threat.

Key Track - 'Compound Fracture'