Bon Iver is continually focused on complex layering, especially on his latest self-titled emote-fest. In his 4AD session Justin Vernon and bandmate Sean Carey explore a handful of reinterpretations from the
Blood Bank EP and the new album as well as a cover of Bonnie Raitt's "I Can't Make You Love Me". While most of the world is obsessed with calling him reluctant (due to his Grammy feelings), we're going with reserved-- Vernon's dueling pianos capture the simply beauty of his melodies while exposing his voice with as little dressing as possible. It's pretty stunning.
The session was recorded in AIR Studio's Lyndurst Hall. Trading his eleven piece band for duel vocals and pianos, Vernon's riffs on his music elicit a contemporary classical appeal. This mode creates an immediate intimacy, as well as an affecting recreation of Vernon's chosen tunes that sound both fragile and larger than life. Simply put, you're going to have to change your pants after this one.
1. Hinnom, TX
2. Wash.
3. I Can't Make You Love Me
4. Babys
5. Beth/Rest
The piano-only version of "Beth/Rest" might finally change the minds of those hatin' nay-sayers. Take notes-- that's how you do it, kids.
