…The Next 20th Century

Perhaps there are a few noticeable stylistic differences in Father John Misty‘s fifth studio release, Chloë and The Next 20^th Century, compared to previous FJM albums, but is it so removed from that magic spun by Josh Tillman? For example, “I Love You, Honeybear” (2015), is a swooning ballad with enough lush arrangements to make it a cinematic dream. Perhaps Chloë may be a departure in scale, considering some of the orchestral moments fit for an old Hollywood motion picture, as in today’s AMM featured track “Funny Girl,” or even the sensuous Bossa Nova coolness of “Olvidado (Otro Momento).” It feels like it comes from a different era. But that theatricality has always been an essential part of each Misty story. Chloë simply reveals another side to Tillman’s talents as a musician. Of course, the powerful narrator telling those stories makes them as vivid and enticing as ever…

Prepare to be drawn in. Father John Misty performs in Austin tonight, Friday August 12, at The Moody Amphitheater at Waterloo Park. Doors open at 6 p.m., and the bill includes a set by London-based artist Suki Waterhouse.