It is one of life's great mysteries how Texan indie rock outfit Okkervil River continue to fly under the radar despite a string of consistently superb albums since their formation in 1998.
Hugely acclaimed for both their albums and live shows, they remain relatively unknown in this part of the world – their brand of literate, intelligent indie rock should have considerable commercial appeal but the record buying public remain obstinately indifferent.
The Silver Gymnasium is the band's seventh album and it's their most unashamedly nostalgic record to date. Inspired by his childhood and the town where he spent his formative years, singer and songwriter Will Sheff takes a trip down memory lane, but it is not the sepia tinted, loving paean to youth that it appears on first listen.
'Lido Pier Suicide Car' hints at darker days and there is a thread of reflective regret running through these eleven songs. The first seven tracks on this record are up there with the very best in the bands illustrious back catalogue – from the jaunty piano opening of 'It Was My Season' through to the marching rhythm of 'White', Sheff and Co deliver one shining pop/rock gem after another. They hit a speed bump with 'Stay Young' and particularly 'Walking with Frankie', two puzzlingly poor inclusions in an otherwise magnificent set. Normal service is resumed with 'All the Time Every Day' and the acoustic based final track 'Black Nemo' which ends proceedings on a satisfying note.
The Silver Gymnasium may not be the album to convert the constant stream of glowing reviews into the kind of record sales that they deserve, but it does confirm that Okkervil River are one of indie rock's best kept secrets just waiting to be uncovered.
Review by Paul Page
