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“The King is Dead” implements a complex set of instrumentation to create a folk rock sound that is uniquely Decemberists.

Although there are several instruments featured on the album – from the violin to the harmonica – the guitar seems to be the instrument that dominates, with plenty of intriguing solos and often soft, melodic rhythms.

However, there are still a multitude of songs that highlight the down tempo of the violin, and although the harmonica parts often seem stock, the sound still works exceptionally well in most of the new album’s songs.

At times, the album does get close to crossing the line between folk rock and country. While there is no pastoral lyricism, the music itself takes a turn.

This is especially apparent on guitar, during which the strumming takes on a country twang and even Colin Meloy’s voice goes from a highly accentual tone to a kind of country drag.

The progression of sound from a folk base to a country base and then back to a folk base gives the album a fractured feel that will leave some listeners wondering what sound the Decemberists are trying to create.

This fusion of rock-country might excite some, but the fused songs will probably be enjoyed more by lovers of country than lovers of rock.

Some of the highlights from the album include “Rox In the Box.”

“Rox” has a folk feel, some fantastic violin solos and also is reminiscent of Irish folk music.

Another is “Down by the Water,” which utilizes some harmonies and a really apt harmonica.

It also has some of the catchier lyrics on the entire album that include, “So knock me down, tear me up, but I would bear it all broken, just fill my cup.”

One of the songs that was the least successful was “Rise to Me,” which was too reminiscent of country songs that the Decemberists aren’t well suited to perform.