New Year...New Tunes

Just wanted to squeeze in a few new tunes before review #175, which will be........Avatar!

Grizzly Bear - Two Weeks

I was vaguely familiar with this band when I saw this song turn up on a "Top 10 Best Songs of 2009" list...then another...and another. So, I had to hear what the fuss was about. The song features gorgeous harmonies over lilting piano and lurches along in a way that reminds me of Wolf Parade or maybe Modest Mouse mixed with the Beach Boys during their "Good Vibrations" era. Check it out below.



Animal Collective - Brother Sport

Along similar lines is the music of Animal Collective, one of the most original bands of the past decade. They have been very active recently releasing either an LP or an EP every year for the past 5 years or so. "Brother Sport" is my favorite song off their most recent full album, Merriweather Post Pavilion. It's rhythmic nature represents the most accessible side of Animal Collective's catalog, and a great jumping off point for exploring their sound. If you like "Brother Sport", there plenty more where that came from, but proceed with caution because some of the band's music is so experimental that it will only appeal to a very small audience.



Okkervil River - Our Life Is Not a Movie or Maybe

Okkervil River is a much more straightforward rock band than either of the previously referenced bands. The lead singer's yelps are slightly reminiscent of The Cure's Robert Smith, but with a stronger rhythm section backing him.