Sun's out, singles of the week is out. We're back again with a timely Sufjan Stevens classic, the first single from Frankie Cosmos' new album, and a soulful gem by Father John Misty.
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Brooklyn Jones, ‘Disappointing Diamonds are the Rarest of them all’ by Father John Misty
If you’ve ever wondered what the Beatles would sound like produced in 2018 with the voice of the lead singer of E.L.O., then look no further than the new single from Father John. Harking back to a classically 60s style of production, this song is lamentingly joyful (if that’s possible). The drum beat, the chords-y piano, and the tinny vocals work together perfectly to form this mini-song (just 2 minutes and 23 seconds!). It’s sung beautifully, and despite its briefness, it truly touches the soul.
Freddie Metherell, ‘Jesse’ by Frankie Cosmos
To the untrained ear ‘Jesse’ might sound a little stripped back. For those more accustomed to the ways of Greta Kline, the band’s frontman, this is not the case. The band is usually set up to make her poetic observations the centre piece. What this song acts to do, is really showcase the musical ability of the wordsmith. In this instance, I think there couldn’t be a more apt opportunity to musically ‘let rip’. As she narrates her desires with a millennial dreaminess, she tells of how she would “like to be a shadow” and “part of the scenery”. The words fade away and the guitar hooks create a tight and uplifting sound that could make you forget what Greta is trying to communicate altogether.
EJ Oakley, ‘Vito’s Ordination Song’ by Sufjan Stevens
As exams steadily approach and many students find themselves crumbling under the stress of studying, I felt it important to draw everyone’s attention to one of the most comforting songs to ever exist. Sufjan Stevens is a man well-known for his gentle voice; evoking tears in even the toughest of people, or bringing joy in the darkest of times. On this criminally underrated number from his 2003 album Michigan, Stevens details his friendship with a reverend from his Brooklyn neighbourhood, and the solace that he finds within his faith – all within a surprisingly secular lyrical ambit. The detailed orchestration and tender instrumentation that shot Stevens to indie-darling status in the early 00’s is more than evident on this track, and you’ll feel all that study stress melt away within the first minute or so as his gentle piano chords take you away to better days.
Image: Sub Pop
