Grizzly Bear//Two Weeks

Grizzly Bear finally released their much-anticipated new album, Veckatimest, last week. Of course, everyone’s been losing their shit about this one, and my first few listens support the fact that the praise and attention is not unfounded.

Hilariously, Other Music pointed out in their last newsletter that the first few hits in Google for “Grizzly Bear” are for the band—and not for ACTUAL grizzly bears…you know…the SPECIES. Indeed, the band’s official page, Wikipedia entry and myspace came up first for me. Although, a search does return this ultra-cute picture (see: Animal Band Names Trend)!!!. AWWWWWW.

Some facts/thoughts on Veckatimest:
1. It’s named after a small island in Massachusetts, but was recorded in the Catskills (unlike Yellow House, which was actually recorded in…a Yellow House).
2. Nico Muhly, of classical fame, was involved.
3. Also involved, the Brooklyn Youth Chorus
4. Am I the only one who thinks the band’s vocals sound way different on this recording?

While this song was the one that initially hooked me most, I’m really enjoying listening to the whole album on my iPod while walking around the neighborhood. It’s pretty and lush, like previous Grizzly works. Also like prior albums, it takes a few listens to get into. It feels like sinking slowly into a big plush couch, letting all the subtle production choices, builds and instrumentation overtake you.



Two Weeks.mp3

Save up all the days,
A routine malaise.
Just like yesterday,
I told you I would stay.

Would you always?
Maybe sometimes?
Make it easy.
Take your time.

Grizzly Bear//Easier

I think Grizzly Bear was initially an Ali find. She told me I would love them and she was right.

This band’s sound is so pretty and fuzzy (not unlike an American Analog Set or a Beach House). The texture adds much feeling to the already flowing and sentimentally-heavy songwriting.

I was recently reminded of this album last week while on tour. We were driving through naturally pristine New Hampshire on a truly gorgeous sun-soaked day. I was trying to come up with the perfect thing to blast through the (somewhat broken) Volvo speakers and Yellow House came to mind. The warm lofi sound quality combined with the easy lifts and falls were just right for the winding roads, sparkling lakes and fresh spring afternoon. The band recorded this collection in Ed Droste's mother's house (hence the title) in Brooklyn and the home-recording only enriches the feeling you get from listening. Of course, this album would also be perfect for a cold day sitting by a bright rich fire.

Throwing this on the car stereo sparked a conversation between Karl and I about collaborative songwriting.
“I don’t know how to write songs like this,” he said.
I agreed.
I think it might have something to do with a lot of people in a room with lots of ideas, none of them too concrete. Maybe we could all take a lesson from GB about relaxing in regards to our creativity.



Easier.mp3

Lucky for us, Grizzly Bear’s next full length, Veckatimest, comes out May 26 on Warp Records.


I still care for you.