Five New Songs We Love: November 4, 2009
You like music. We like music. And there is a lot of it out there. Periodically, we intend to fill you in some of the music we like. No, not just like ... LOVE.
1. "Mind Eraser, No Chaser," Them Crooked Vultures
The Josh Homme/John Paul Jones/Dave Grohl supergroup are back with the second sneak preview track ("New Fang," of course, was the first) from the upcoming Them Crooked Vultures debut album. "Mind Eraser, No Chaser" benefits greatly from the sweet, unmistakeably Foo backing vocals from the man behind the drum kit. If you like what you hear, and you should, then you're in luck: the band is offering a free download of the track through iTunes.
2. "Ambling Arp," Yeasayer
The Brooklyn polyrhythmists return with this first single from their upcoming sophomore effort Odd Blood (out in February). All of your favorite Yeasayer characteristics—trebly yelps, retro-future analog textures, engaging grooves—are present, as is perhaps their poppiest melody to date. Free download, or bundle with limited edition vinyl, here.
3. "Friends," Cracker feat. Patterson Hood
'A bit dysfunctional, folks might say,' David Lowery sings in the newest Cracker single, an ode to bromance that lasts. Friendship might sometimes be dysfunctional, but not this woozy country-rock ballad, which features guitar and some lead vocals from Drive By Trucker Patterson Hood. With friends like this, a little dysfunction is acceptable, even welcome.
4. "Golden Phone," Micachu and the Shapes
Twenty-two year-old, classically trained Mica Levi has quickly developed a reputation for producing experimental songs that nevertheless retain a pop sense. "Golden Phone" may not be technically brand new (it appeared on Micachu's Jewellery album earlier this year, and was released as a single last year), but it's new enough to most, and it deserves to be heard. [iTunes]
5. "New Moon Rising," Wolfmother
Sometimes, you just want to rawk. Wolfmother frontman Andrew Stockdale is the sole original member on Cosmic Egg—the newest Wolfmother LP, out last week—but the Wolfmother sound has lost none of its bruising, soulful, loud-and-heavy character that fueled previous releases. Recommended if you like Blue Cheer, Sabbath, or heavy low end that shakes a room.
