Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros: “Better Days”

Fans still have a little bit of a wait before the new self-titled album drops July 23, but if “Better Days” is any indication, it seems like the music of Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros will be a defining element of this summer. The Alex Ebert-led band sounds like they have more or less created a continuation of their previous albums, with their hopeful yet melancholic sentiments that floods from track to track. Still, something about the music they make is admirable, and I think it lies in the myriad members in the band. Even though there are anywhere from 10 to 15 people playing at once, they are still able to capture the feeling of an intimate, personal show, which is a rarity with a multi-person, multi-instrumental band.

“Better Days” maintains this uniqueness of Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros with its catchy lyrics and echoic, mid-toned vocals against an array of percussion, keyboards and bass. Of course the greatest contribution each band member has made is within the vocals, for they lift each piece of the song into an ethereal bliss. “Better Days” is certainly captivating, and although it does not evoke the same passion as earlier songs, like “40 Day Dream,” it delves deep enough to ignite the desire for what the rest of the album will be. It seems like consistency will be a strong ally for Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros, for “Better Days” does not disappoint and neither will the album as it arrives smack in the middle of summer.