All We Grow

Released in 2010, All We Grow is the debut solo effort from Sean Carey, best known as the drummer and secondary vocalist for Bon Iver. Recorded over two years during breaks from touring 'For Emma, Forever Ago', the album was tracked at Carey's home and Justin Vernon's April Base studio. While it shares the Wisconsin-born intimacy of his primary band, Carey distinguishes himself through his sophisticated use of rhythm and modern classical influences. Critics from BBC Music and AllMusic praised the album for its 'organic' feel and 'meticulous' arrangements, noting how Carey successfully transitioned from a supporting player to a distinct voice in the indie-folk landscape. The record is notable for its lack of traditional folk tropes; instead of simple strumming, it utilizes complex time signatures and mallet-based percussion (vibraphones, marimbas) to create a 'chamber folk' sound that feels both ancient and contemporary.