Cloud Cult's "The Meaning Of 8" - The First Great Album of 2007

First, I think that everyone out there in blogland needs to salute Mr. Preciousroy. Loses a load of blood and is still able to deliver Video Friday? C'mon guys, that's dedication.

And, another quick sidenote: that new Modest Mouse song turns out to be a little bit of a grower. Sure, it's still nothing more than a pop song, but it's a pretty decent pop song. At the very least, it's a nice little listen.

But, moving on to more pressing matters, I've just finished up my 2nd listen of Cloud Cult's new album "The Meaning of 8," and, to put it mildly, I'm floored.

The band, the brainchild of environmentalist Craig Minowa, was started as a project to support several of Minowa and friend's causes. But, after the tragic death of his infant son, their music began to become more ambitious. Still though, Minowa and Cloud Cult hold firm to their environmental convictions, as they hand produce each of their thousands of plastic CD cases themselves, using exclusively recycled products. Further, every one of the band's studio sessions is completely powered by wind power, which is pretty damn remarkable considering just how great it sounds. The band's live show is one of indie rock's most unique, and often features several live painters.

But, even better than the band's quirky and respectable talking points is their beautiful music, which overflows with hooks, richness, and emotion. "8," the follow-up to 2005's "Advice from the Happy Hippopotamus" expands upon that epic release's diverse songwriting and Flaming Lips-esque sincerity with another song cycle concerned with death, mortality and the beauty of everyday life. Indeed, this album is a logical progression from "Hippopotamus," but everything seems to be kicked up a dozen notches for this release, which offers 19 tracks of blissful pop sincerity, emotion, and uniqueness. This is Highly recommended, and sure to be one of the years best albums.

Some of the album's many highlights:

Cloud Cult - Purpose
Cloud Cult - Dance For The Dead
Cloud Cult - The Deaf Girl's Song

***If you enjoy Cloud Cult's music please be sure to purchase a CD or some other piece of merchandise from www.cloudcult.com. Cloud Cult is a completely non-profit band, meaning that all proceeds are donated towards charity.