Bill Fay - "Filled With Wonder Once Again"

By the time of its release on January 17, 2020, it will have been five years since Dead Oceans last released a record from English folk artist Bill Fay (that was Who Is The Sender?). Known for being a bit enigmatic and letting his music speak for itself, I can't say for certain what Fay's been up to, but after five decades of releasing music (his self-titled album came out in 1970) it's promising to hear a hopeful track such as this first taste of Countless Branches. A beautiful way to ease into the new year and new decade and such a simple sentiment expressed directly.

Alex Lahey - "Am I Doing It Right?"

Yes. Yes, Alex, you are doing it right. Best of Luck Club comes out May 17th on Dead Oceans

Ryley Walker - "The Halfwit In Me"

This feels more like a fall song (it's hot as hell in Winnipeg today) but if you're inside and have good air-conditioning, then mellow out to the track from the forthcoming (AUGUST!) album Golden Sings That Have Been Sung.

Strand Of Oaks - "Shut In"

While the bass drum is insistent, that gravel-voice emphatic and the guitar a hot squall, what really sells me on this song is the rolling toms followed up by sparse chords pounded out on an old piano at the 2:47 mark. Such a cathartic release after everything builds.

Akron/Family - "Way Up"

Like the entire world, I'm not the biggest Monday guy, especially when we're in the midst of a snowstorm. But when the new Akron/Family arrived in the mail this morning, I knew this week was off to an alright start.