This is truly beautiful music. For their fourth full length Yo La Tengo largely abandoned their electric guitars in favor of a more acoustic sound. The band had been through a few lineup changes, but for Fakebook the core duo of Ira Kaplan and Georgia Hubley were joined by past member Dave Schramm on guitar, as well as Al Greller on double bass. The album is mostly composed of covers from artists like Cat Stevens, Gene Clark, The Kinks, and Daniel Johnston, amongst others. This is the Yo La Tengo record for anyone who may not think they're into the band. It might be a little disingenuous to say so, as they haven't made one like it since. However, the music is far too good to pass up. Fakebook is filled with warm and low key moments that only get better with every listen. There are moments of melancholy coupled with unadulterated joy. It's Yo La Tengo exploring their numerous influences, the music they love, and doing so exquisitely. Recommended.

• music label: Bar/None Records 1990 / 2014

reviewed by Hank Ohs 05/2014