Let’s Go Sailing

June 27, 2007

I recently added Let’s Go Sailing’s album The Chaos in Order to my iPod on some good recommendations, and there’s been more than one occasion where one of their classical-inspired indie pop songs would come up on shuffle and I’d looked down to see the name Let’s Go Sailing. This very enjoyable sound comes from Shana Levy (formerly of Irving) and friends (members of Silversun Pickups, Radar Brothers and Goldenboy). Levy wears her influences on her sleeve with this album, she incorporates a classical feel with piano and strings which adds to the 60’s pop influence as well as a melodic feel that strikes similarities to Elliott Smith.

If the bittersweet ballad “All I Want From You Is Love” sounds like the kind of song featured on such shows as Grey’s Anatomy, it’s because it was in fact (there’s video evidence here). It’s a beautiful little tune with some fantastic instrumentation and melody. Another stand-out for me is the buoyant twee anthem, “Icicles”. It’s a very summery song, despite the icy title (the lyrics are actually about the ice melting). It’s a very cute and jangly tune in the spirit of Arrah and the Ferns, with a chorus that will float right into your mind and stay there for a while. Get Chaos in Order, it’s a great album.

MP3 All I Want From You Is Love
MP3 Icicles

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Okkervil River’s new album is on the internet and I’m loving it more than any of their previous records (although it’s greatest moments probably don’t match “For Real” or “War Criminal”).  Read about it at Blogs are for Dogs or Oceans Never Listen.

Also, go wish Mr. Picasso a happy 21st.  I remember the days when Matt was still getting nominated for Best Teen Weblog.  How time flies.

Posted by Taylor in Artist Spotlight