Good morning!
Today we’re listening to “Crutch” by Band of Horses
You ever had 2-3 bands that you sort of blend into one? Even with a distinctive sound, you always get them mixed up? That’s Band of Horses for me. I loved Laredo, and Casual Party is alt-pop perfection. But if I’m honest, I’d mix often them up with bands like Sparklehorse or similar (and not just because of the equestrian nod).
They were awesome, but unremarkable all at once. Given the multiple lineup shifts and changes in sound, they didn’t make it easy on me.
That’s changed with “Things Are Great.” The title is sarcastic, of course, and on-brand for a group with a talent for making you dance to lyrics describing misery.
The group didn’t waste any time roping me in, and they weren’t going to let me get away again, either. “Crutch” is the 2nd song on Things, and my runaway favorite. Like the earlier “Casual Party,” singer Ben Bridwell’s angst (and soaring vocals) is front and center here backed with sugary sweet music.
Discussing the track he noted, “I feel like everybody has had a time when nothing goes right and you still have to carry on. I think that feeling hits you in this song even if you don’t know what the specifics are.”
On a personal level, that’s certainly relatable—we’ve all been there. And given the current environment we’re living in, it fits too.
More:
The result is a record that’s personable to a degree even defenders of Band of Horses’ last few releases might be surprised by, an album that restores not only the pulse of their first album but also the indelible sense of safety and coziness. Even when Bridwell’s woords read like a Facebook post from a friend who is not OK, his music comforts like a second slice of pie in front of the fireplace.
Read what Pitchfork thought of the full record here.
Listen:
“Crutch” by Band of Horses | Things Are Great, 2022
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Thanks for being here,
Kevin—
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I had sort of written this band off (not sure why), but Bridwell's voice definitely has a nostalgic quality to it for me. I'm reminded of those days in the early aughts when tracks from "Cease to Begin" were everywhere. I'll definitely check this record out. I also never really listened to his collab with Sam Beam (Iron & Wine) from a few years back. Guess I should do that, too!
BoH has always been one of my favorite bands. As you already know, I love this new album. Those colossal vocal swells on the chorus of Coalinga? I mean, come on. That’s some epic shit right there. Love every track here. They came back damn strong with this one.