On their previous album, "Her Majesty the Decemberists," many comparisons were drawn between vocalist Colin Meloy's songwriting style with that of Jeff Mangum [Neutral Milk Hotel] and The Zombies. "Picaresque" finds the vocal theatrics being downplayed somewhat, lending more of a mature feel to Meloy's delivery while augmenting the actual tales of loss contained within. The lyrics are still highly intellectual and the music is as polished as ever. Therefore, "Picaresque" should see this Portland [OR] band making great strides and acquiring many new fans along the way- certainly. - Alex Slawson and Herman Snell