Thirteenth studio album from Chicago's Andrew Bird. Are You Serious marks a return to the prolific multi-instrumentalist's pop side after 2015's experimental Echolocations: Canyon. Bird's trademark dexterous violin theatrics are there, along with his cerebral lyrics and deft whistling. He's got a new found swagger that seems to set this album apart from what he's released in the past. Perhaps it's due to Are You Serious being the first album his released since getting married and having a kid. His writing is filled with warmth while the instrumental side of his songs is more robust than ever. He duets with Fiona Apple on "Left Handed Kisses," and "The New St. Jude" is drawing comparisons to Paul Simon. Thirteen tracks in all. Released by Loma Vista on 180 gram blue vinyl with a bonus red vinyl 7".

• deluxe edition
• 180 gram blue vinyl pressing
• bonus red vinyl 7"
• includes free download
• music label: Loma Vista 2016

reviewed by Folksy Carm Hickle 04/2016