"Setting sun framed in the doorway right behind you," whispers ex-film professor Sam Beam in one of many cinematic images on this two-disc rarities compilation. Unspooling his haunting originals, plus choice covers (including the Postal Service's "Such Great Heights" and New Order's "Love Vigilantes"), Beam frames his warm vocals mainly with banjo lines and spare acoustic-guitar strumming. His group's folk-rocking 2007 set, The Shepherd's Dog, was a refreshing departure from this sort of hushed melodymaking. But Iron and Wine's slow-motion magic shines here, and the material ranks with their best. It may be the most hypnotizing hour and a half you spend all month.

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WILL HERMES

(Posted: May 26, 2009)