Filed under: Music | Tags: Delta Spirit, Monk, Noah and the Whale, Paul Simon, Plants and Animals
Instead of racking our brains to think of our favourite songs of all time (which is far too difficult to do), we’ll simply tell you the songs we’re liking during the here and now. Admittedly, I’m kind of obsessed with Fleet Foxes right now, hence my first post being about them but for the sake of diversity, I’ll mix it up a little.
#1. Paul Simon/Delta Spirit cover - Duncan
A few months ago I discovered a band called Delta Spirit who I immediately fell in love with. Usually when this happens, a certain frenzy occurs and I just have to get my hands on every song they’ve sung – during my search I stumbled across their various Daytrotter sessions (An awesome website, check it out: www.daytrotter.com) in one of which they covered ‘Duncan’ by Paul Simon. Though both versions are seriously good, I do prefer Delta Spirit’s cover and the way Matt Vasquez tones his voice down and sings it in a way that really conveys the beauty of the lyrics. I’d definately recommend getting hold of both versions and also Delta Spirit’s super debut album – ‘Ode to Sunshine’.
#2. Plants and Animals – Bye Bye Bye
Though I’ve heard of Plants and Animals, I had never really took the time to listen to them until the other week. It’s nothing spectacular, but their songs are definately enjoyable. If I had to pick a favourite It’d be ‘Bye Bye Bye’ – It’s one of those ‘feel good’ songs and perfect for a summer’s day. Sometimes it’s just nice to listen to an easy-listening band with decent songs that just make you feel happy and I reckon Plants and Animals are one of those bands. Check out their myspace: www.myspace.com/plantsandanimals
#3. Noah & the Whale – The First Days of Spring
I was lucky enough to hear this song at Noah & the Whale’s debut album launch at the Roundhouse last summer – It was the last song they played and It definately left an impression. We were both sitting at the edges of our seats, overwhelmed with excitement right from the beginning. It’s a really amazing and somewhat poignant song – Tom Hobden’s string arrangements are immensely beautiful throughout the song but really shine through after the breakdown near the end – Just listening to it brings back that same excitement I felt when I first heard it a year ago. The band have just finished recording their second album and a free download of ‘The First Days of Spring’ is available on their website: www.noahandthewhale.com
