'challengers' continues the new pornographer's signature multi-layered sound with greater epic sweep and wider sonic diversity. less frenetically jaunty than its predecessors but still encapsulating pure summer joy, this album will impress the existing fans and convert the uninitiated. recorded for the first time largely outside bassist john collins' vancouver jc/dc studio, 'challengers' is their most organic-sounding record, reflecting a conscious decision to use less 'beepy synth' and almost entirely 'real' instruments (in addition to those listed above, they recruited an entire string section - who have played with sufjan stevens - plus harp, flute, and more). main songwriter and de facto band leader, a.c. ('carl') newman has enjoyed a fruitful musical career, from the seminal sub pop band zumpano in the '90s to his phenomenal solo debut in 'the slow wonder' in 2004. for all the good-times vibe of his band the new pornographers, he likes his alone time. other prominent vocals on the record come from regular pornographer's contributor, the incredibly talented neko case. the most appealing aspect of this band is the multi-layered vocal harmonies so everyone gets a shot at the limelight. some of neko's highlights on this record include title-track 'challengers' and the exquisite 'go places'. on matador.
