The Antlers, and my return to the melancholy
I went through a long phase of listening to sad music that my friends constantly complained about and dubbed ’slit-your-wrist-rock.’ I was taken by music that expressed pain and hurt so beautifully. Music by people like Elliot Smith, Antony Hagerty and Scott Hutchinson. Recently, I’ve emerged on the other end of the spectrum, focusing on the heavy wave of upbeat electro, indie-pop and nu-disco that’s taken over.
Tonight I listened to the The Antlers record Hospice for the first time and immediately reverted to my former self. This is an album of deep sadness. It tells the story of a man who spent months in New York City alongside a loved one struggling with cancer who eventually passes away. It’s personal, specific, beautiful and crushing.
Listen while alone. Headphones are a must.
It gets better with each listen. Buy it here. Sample two tracks below. UPDATE: Download the liner notes, which include all song lyrics by clicking here.
The Antlers have 3 shows coming up for CMJ. BrooklynVegan’s showcase at MHOW on 10/20 (tix), a free gig at Soundfix Records on 10/21 and an NME showcase at Delancey on 10/22.
how can i get this song of lyric?
Hi KC – I’m going to update the post to include this, but you can download the liner notes from the album, which includes all the lyrics, here: http://www.antlersmusic.com/linernotes.pdf
Thx for reading.
Blackraptor.
Thanks.
Uh oh. What will the new phase be called? Inhale car exhaust rock?
Au Revoir Simone played with them, and likes them.
fitting that the album cover features a hospital patient’s wrist
Your sensitivity to others pain shows a wisdom beyond your years.
eels electroshock blues