Nonesuch

A mystical quality surrounds Iron and Wine mastermind Samuel Beam as he continually challenges musical pretenses and, as such, Ghost On Ghost may be the strongest assertion yet for absolving limiting genre definitions. With a handful of friends, including regular collaborator Brian Deck, capturing his grand vision, Beam strays far from the folk path, dabbling in prog rock, Beach Boys-esque pop, R&B, jazz and vocal pop. Despite Beam’s indie-folk history, hints of such diversions have always been present. “Grace for Saints and Ramblers” places Queen-like orchestral movements over snappy drums and rapid strings, while “Low Light Buddy of Mine” offers ‘50s bop jazz intertwined with modern R&B beats, random electronic segments and drizzly piano. “Joy” finds Beam crooning echo-y golden harmonies over a soft rock piano, and “Lovers’ Revolution” sports a rambling Van Morrison ‘70s jazz-rock make-up. Beam’s evolution as a songwriter continues its rapid trajectory – sky’s the limit.