What happens when you strip down

Known for writing sweeping, generously produced pseudo-anthems like “The Funeral‰” and “No One‰’s Ever Gonna Love You,‰” Band of Horses might not seem like the first choice to play an acoustic set, let alone an acoustic set at the site of the original Grand Ole Opry. By and large, though, Band of Horses rise to the challenge, writing effective acoustic arrangements of some of their hits. Sometimes this works well; Ben Birdwell rewrites that saccharine schlockfest “No One‰’s Ever Gonna Love You‰” into a charming acoustic ballad. Other times it‰’s ineffective; “Detlef Schrempf‰” is still a glacial, grating piece of dreck. The acoustic approach works best on some of their lesser-known songs, where Birdwell‰’s Southern upbringing shows itself and enlightens the listener on the groups‰’ appreciation for roots music. While it‰’s a well played set, the appeal one sees in this record will be dependent on their tolerance for Birdwell‰’s songwriting and voice, which, for me, is admittedly low. But anyone who wishes MTV Unplugged went in a more indie direction should be pretty please.

RIYL: Fleet Foxes, Bon Iver, Iron & Wine
Recommended: 4, 5, 7, 8