Lost Coastlines
This is a video of A.C. Newman, frontman of the New Pornographers, and Will Sheff, of Okkervil River, singing "Lost Coastlines," off Okkervil River's new album, The Stand-Ins. I went to see an Okkervil River concert with my brother on Sunday, so I thought it was appropriate.
Their performance was really amazing. The star of the show is certainly frontman Will Sheff - while he may not be the most technically proficient singer, he is incredibly emotive and engaging. It is clear that the rest of the band is a supporting cast, but a capable one. I was especially impressed by the lead guitarist, and I'm not just saying this because I'm usually attracted to female musicians. She plays subtle and beautiful parts that add to the songs not just melodically, but rhythmically as well. It supports my theory that, while technically talented musicians may not make a band great, in the hands of a great songwriter, they can certainly make it better (see also: Nels Cline of Wilco).
I also recommend the new album. My favourite song is "Lost Coastlines," which features a cool bass line and castanets. Altogether, the album is solid, but probably not as good as 2005's Black Sheep Boy, which I think is a truly great album. "Black," for me, is one of the most powerful compositions ever.
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