There's not a lot to dislike on Volume Two, the more polished follow-up to the still bizarre M.Ward-Zooey Deschanel pairing's 2008 debut. Admittedly, my fascination with doe-eyed Zooey gives her an initial congratulatory boost; but, hey, I can't say I'll be listening to any Scarlett Johansson serenades in the near future. It's clear that Zooey, given more room to roam around M.Ward's compositions than on the last effort, carries this album on talent, grace and innate charm.
Volume Two is all about pretending the last fifty years of music never happened. Smooth backing vocals, steady four-piece drum rhythms, and quaint, innocent yearnings make this entire journey feel like time travel. M.Ward provides most of the album's compelling wordsmithery, but nothing beats the old-fashioned cover "Gonna Get Along Without You Now." The perfect song for a cocky, springtime jaunt.
Essential Tracks:
"Gonna Get Along Without You Now"
"Thieves"
"Brand New Shoes"
