mp3: Vetiver

"Please Don't Pass Me By"

If I had to dislike something about Vetiver, it'd be that they are just so easy. Almost like easy listening of the folk variety. While this could easily tarnish their reputation, fact is their sound is so effortless and carefree that the simplicity doesn't bother me, rather it enchants me, giving their sylvan folk a preternatural quality, comparable to dawning sun. If your looking to get into the band, I highly suggest checking out "Sleep a Million Years", a collaboration with Vashti Bunyan which appeared on Vetiver's covers album Things of the Past, which, like all thigns Vashti, is absolutely magical. Vetiver released their latest, Tight Knit, this week on Sub Pop and will be heading on tour with current Bobka favorites Papercuts this Spring. The pairing will hit the Bowery Ballroom on May 3rd and Brooklyn's Bell House on May 7th. I highly suggest penciling this in on your calendar.

Vetiver- Everyday
Vetiver w/ Vashti Bunyan- Sleep a Million Years

mp3: Papercuts

"It Looks Like It's Gonna Be a Long Long March"

In anticipation of You Can Have What You Want, I've found myself revisiting Papercuts mesmerizing sophomore release Can't Go Back. Full of melancholic indie pop of the best variety, Jason Quever has a knack for masking sad songs with uptempo melodies and meandering instrumentation, giving Can't Go Back the feel of a long walk by the shore on a windy afternoon. Subtle and introspective, his songs are like old homes, all knowing and full of knooks and crannies, in which real gems lie hidden like Stuart Little. His soon to be released You Can Have What You Want, which, like its two predecessors, will be released on Devendra Banhart's Gnomonsong label, features contributions from Beach House guitarist Alex Scally, which practically guarantees maximum dreaminess.

Papercuts- Dear Employee