And the poets, they explode like bombs
Overflow, Day 2
I’ve been a huge fan of all things Andrew Bird for something like 20 years at this point. I discovered his violin-centric music through a friend in the early years of his solo career, after three releases from his group, Andrew Bird’s Bowl of Fire, failed to create much in the way of commercial success. That proved to be a blessing, however, as he discovered looping as a way of filling out his sound when performing solo. Before long, he found the winning formula which included greater use of his world-class whistling (I know, just trust me), guitar, & layered loops of violin – often colored with vintage Leslie-style amplifiers.1 All of this crystallized with 2005’s The Mysterious Production of Eggs, which is definitely worth a listen.
The track I’m excited to share today is from his 2019 album, My Finest Work Yet. There’s something in the laidback way this song moves along that feels different from a lot of Bird’s work. It’s refreshing to hear him find such a groove in what comes across as a more simple arrangement. There’s no question that this still retains a quality that is unmistakably Andrew Bird, especially in the relaxed jam that closes the track.
This one is also a bit of a departure lyrically, in that it’s less verbose – though no less poignant & discerning. Speaking about the message, Bird said, “We find ourselves in a cold civil war. Everyone is playing their part too well. Certain actors are reaping power and wealth from divisiveness.”2
Whatever you feel about the current political or social landscape, it’s hard to argue with him.
Andrew Bird – “Bloodless”
Listen on Spotify // Tidal // Apple Music // Youtube Music // Bandcamp // Amazon Music
Thanks for being here.
☵ SK
Leslie speaker, Wikipedia – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leslie_speaker#/media/File:Lesliebox_Animation.gif
First Watch: Andrew Bird Is Bloodless, NPR – https://www.npr.org/2018/11/01/663000810/first-watch-andrew-bird-is-bloodless