While you're still trying to process the idea of Bon Iver as a "new artist", here are some recommended tracks from our music writers, including songs by Blue Oyster Cult, Exitmusic, and Stanley from The Office:
Casey DeweyBlue Oyster Cult, "Veteran of the Psychic Wars"
It's a shame that every time I bring up BOC, some genius has to shout out "more cowbell". I get it, it was a funny skit the first time around. Anyhow, this track off of the Fire of Unkown Origin album, and the cult classic Heavy Metal soundtrack, is a rare gem. With lyrics from Sci-Fi author Michael Moorcock and an opening that has me thinking the boys were listening to some Peter Gabriel at the time, Veteran of the Psychic Wars is a slow burner that cooks juuuust right. Probably best heard with a tinfoil hat on and a bong nearby.
Mel Mason
Exitmusic, "The Hours"
Full, spacey-sounding, and slowly paced, featuring longing, breathy vocals in which I wouldn't mind being engulfed... and all I can think about are the secrets to maintaining the gorgeous mane singer Aleksa Palladino has dangling from her pouty head in the video. OK, that's not true. This Brooklyn duo knows how to create the swoon vibe in a big way, and I can only imagine what it must be like in a live setting. I hope they find their way to the southwest at some point soon so we can find out.
Curtis McCrary
Leslie David Baker feat. N.U.M., "2 Be Simple"
I can't figure this out.Maybe this is too "viral" to be my submission for this week but fuck it, I don't care.
