So, there is this Austin musician named  Drew Smith who also performs as Drew Smith’s Lonely Choir along with a motley crew of musician friends who don’t mind being crammed on a stage. All sorts of other media have been singing their praise and it seems I am arriving late to the party. But, better late than ever.  By the way – has any one heard this band called Vampire Weekend’s record? Not too shabby…. (sigh.)

The self-titled record is especially intrigued me, with it’s many dead on harmonies and jangly hook filled songs including ‘Nilsson Sings Newman.’ This one really stands out. I asked Smith to elaborate on what the song is about via email, here is what he said:

“The album “Nilsson sings Newman” took over my life about 2 years ago. It revives me creatively over and over. So I wrote a song about listening to it – friend at my side, bottled liquor in hand – the only way to listen to great records, right? Harry Nilsson is a hero of mine. He wrote amazing pop songs himself (“One is the loneliest number…”, “Lime in the Coconut”, “Jump into the Fire”), but his interpretation of these particular Randy Newman songs completely blew my mind. Nilsson recorded these songs before the cigarettes rasped up his voice and the excessive alcohol warped his body. He was in perfect creative form. This song is merely recognizing how the album “Nilsson sings Newman” makes me feel. Thanks for listening to it!”

I am conflicted because I hate Randy Newman and yet love Harry Nilsson. I guess this song is forgiven due to its sincerity. It is plain and simple great pop music with a an intellectual edge that ideally will expose a whole new wave of Nilsson Smilsson fans, and who knows, it might even make me give a damn about Randy Newman. At a time when it seems musicians are striving for the most ironic train of thought, reference or allusion possible; it is nice to hear someone earnestly just put it out there; “yeah, I like Harry and Randy- this record will make you cry” all in about two and a half minutes. More than anything, this track reminds me a lot of Electric Light Orchestra.

Drew is playing at that place Momo’s this Saturday the 29h for the venue’s 9th year anniversary of being that place above that restaurant with the guy who runs for Mayer and rarely kloses.  Congrats on Momo’s on 9 years of business!

MP3: Drew Smith’s Lonely Choir – Nilsson Sings Newman

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Yes, the Summer Extrav-0-Ganza Boat Party was insanely fun.  Thanks to everyone who came out and ate, drank and swam with us! More coverage later….