YACHT – Waste of Time

Jona Bechtolt and Claire L. Evans have been busting out this new song on their recent tour, and it’s mantra/dance track genius is so fitting that it’s hard to believe it’s a cover from a 1980s movie (Ladies and Gentlemen, the Fabulous Stains). Regardless of origins, YACHT has adopted the tune and I’m not complaining. As Jona says, “This is for dancing.”

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Blitzen Trapper - The Tree

This local Portland favorite is back with a new album (Destroyer of the Void) and plenty of good folk-rock tunes to satisfy their loyal fans. Fellow local Alela Diane joins the guys of Blitzen Trapper on this peaceful, simple song. Leader Eric Earley has a knack for classic folk storytelling, and this song is a perfect example of his effortless style.

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The Tallest Man On Earth – Graceland (Paul Simon cover)

Swedish crooner Kristian Matsson gives the stripped-down-folk treatment to one of my all-time favorite songs, Paul Simon’s “Graceland.” It’s been a fan-favorite at his live shows, and Matsson always sings the words with heart. The chorus almost carries more weight here than the original, as Matsson’s scraggly and powerful voice sounds distraught and uneasy.