On their fourth release Frog Eyes stretch their trademark sound further around the evolving, inspired compositions of singer/guitarist Carey Mercer. With Tears of the Valedictorian, the Vancouver quartet has crafted a dense work that breathes and seethes with an energy all its own. There is space on this record, real dynamic development, especially heard on the two tracks that make up its centerpiece: the twin epics 'Caravan Breakers' and 'Bushels'. Though on the surface Mercer's lyrics hold an extremely bleak world view, at its core this is vital, hopeful music by a group of musicians seemingly playing with a single mind.