Usually when we decide to undertake something as a one off, we are lucky if it happens once. The fact that if we manage to accomplish the thing once, we stop at that point has less to do with our discipline and resolve and more to do with our level of competence and follow through. Compare that to New Zealand indie legends Tall Dwarfs. Members Chris Knox and Alec Bathgate intended the project to be a one off, but it lasted 21 years and produced 13 albums and EPs. By the way, don't feel badly for us -- this isn't the first time we have come off second best in comparison with a beloved band and it won't be the last. In fact, we think it quite likely we have an unblemished record of finishing second in two way comparisons. We say "likely" because to be more certain would require research, and if we really researched something, we assure you it would be a one off.
But back to the Tall Dwarfs. Let it be known that Merge Records is releasing a boxed set (4 X LPs or 2 X CDs, both with digital DL card) of the band's material. The set consists of 55 songs curated by one-half dwarf Bathgate. The material is packed with lo fi gems displaying intelligence, craft, and inspired musicality. The listeners will discern the influence the Tall Dwarfs had on a multitude of other bands, including the Mountain Goats, Pavement, and Yo La Tengo. We already know that this will be one of our favorite releases of the year.
This is an announcement, not a review. But we can't leave you without something for your ears:
No comments:
Post a Comment