Introducing: Volcano Choir

(Volcano Choir debut album, Unmap)

Volcano Choir is a new project from Bon Iver, who's debut album, For Emma, Forever Ago, was one of the absolute best albums of last year. On this album, he joins forces with Collections of Colonies of Bees, a post-rock outfit from Milwaukee who play instrumental guitar driven experimental music along the lines of Explosions in the Sky and Mogwai. The combination is powerful - adding some brilliant instrumentation to Bon Iver's usually subtle backdrops. The first single off the album, "Island, IS", comes off like a panda bear meets dirty projectors at their more mellow state. At the 2:45 mark the Dirty Projector comparison becomes readily apparent setting up Bon Iver to lead the song to its beautiful climax. This is exciting stuff - I am desperately awaiting the release of the full length on 9/22. Check out the single NOW: LINK

(For Emma, Forever Ago album cover)

For those unfamiliar with Bon Iver, For Emma, Forever Ago is a must. His album is meant to be listened to alone in the woods surrounded by some idyllic setting. His voice is haunting and the emotions he is able to convey are staggering. Try listening to "Skinny Love", maybe my favorite track of 2008, without being moved (on his myspace): http://www.myspace.com/boniver

Enjoy,
MD