I’ve fallen in love with plenty of albums over a lifetime of music listening and Neutral Milk Hotel’s In the Aeroplane Over the Sea is among my top favorites. It has called to me ever since I first heard it more than 20 years ago. And I gladly accept the invitation to sit down and experience the songs each time I feel it’s call. The album feels like home. It’s warm, playful, sometimes sad, and uniquely beautiful.

I was living in Lexington, KY right before In the Aeroplane Over the Sea was released in 1998. The band was touring a lot at that time. I would notice occasional flyers for upcoming shows at one the local music clubs. Regrettably I never made it to one of their shows during that period,
but I heard people talking about their amazing sound. It didn’t take too long before I spotted their new album and was excited to finally hear what the band had to share with us.

The instrumentation and Jeff Mangum’s vocal style catch my attention with each listen. Mangum’s acoustic guitar has a wonderful tone. The horn section adds bright boldness. And the singing saw offers an other-worldly energy. Mangum’s voice has a genuine, desperate quality that I don’t hear often. The songs weave moments of calm and storm together with a natural feel.

It was made by a group of long-time friends and this comes across in their art. I am grateful for their creative spirit. And I always look forward to the next time this album calls me back for another listen.

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By John Caywood