The Mountain Goats have never ceased to grow and mature on their albums. From the static-y, garage band sound of All Hail West Texas to the more polished The Sunset Tree, they’ve allowed themselves to evolve while remaining true to their lyrically bountiful and heavily acoustic roots. All Eternals Deck is no exception to this. The album is not musically groundbreaking, but serves to further showcase the immense talent that lies within this well seasoned trio.

Citing works such as Go Ask Alice and the 70’s cult classic Burnt Offerings as influences, Darnielle makes it clear that the album is much darker than past works. Still, there is a wonderful mix of sounds and styles.

“Outer Scorpion Squadron” is a beautiful track. Soft strings are paired with melodic piano notes as Darnielle shows a smoother and softer side to his vocal range. “High Hawk Season” relies almost completely on the backing vocals of a baritone choir, and “Prowl Great Cain” blends fast guitar with soulful cello.  “Beautiful Gas Mask” has a more indie melody spurred by Wurster and Hughes’ steady guitar and percussion as Darnielle sings, “Wish I knew where you’d gone/know you’re there off in the shadows somewhere/trying to soldier on.”

Part of what makes this album so enjoyable, despite its at times bleak and dismal atmosphere, are the pieces of familiarity that are weaved with new and interesting compositions. Darnielle’s gravely voice continues to be strangely soothing, and Hughes and Wurster are still creating enticing harmonies. But this time around the band expands their use of strings and piano, creating a more orchestral sound, revealing a darker, more ominous side of themselves. All Eternals Deck is the band’s 18th album and a fine addition to an already impressive discography. It is sure to please first time listeners and longtime fans alike.

(Merge Records, PO Box 1235, Chapel Hill, NC 27514)