After a surprising turn into noisy guitar chaos on last year’s “Hot Slob,” Sylvan Esso announced their new album Ow ∞ last month and shared its Sigur Rós-sampling lead single “Concrete Glen.” The song, which incorporates the gorgeous, familiar-yet-alien sound of Jonsi’s vocals from “Svefn-g-englar,” marked a return to the duo’s usual speciality of folk-informed, forward-thinking pop. Today they’ve got another new track for us, and it’s maintaining the standard of excellence.
“On & On” is frenetic yet melancholy. It sounds like moving drowsily through a world that’s buzzing along at an uncomfortably fast pace, but eventually finding synchronicity with your surroundings. In addition to core members Amelia Meath and Nick Sanborn, it features an all-star cast of musicians including Wilco’s Glenn Kotche on drums and percussion; Wye Oak/Flock Of Dimes’ Jenn Wasner on bass, guitar, and percussion; Daniel Aged on bass; Jake Luppen on guitar; and TJ Maiani on drums.
Listen below.
Ow ∞ is out 9/11 on Psychic Hotline. Pre-order it here. Sylvan Esso have scheduled listening parties for 9/3 at the following locations around the world:
Mexico City – 99Recs (Roma)
Taipei – Chao Bar Record Store
Tokyo – IPPEN
Dublin – The Big Romance
London – Cafe 1001
Berlin – Unkompress
San Diego – Part Time Lover
Los Angeles – ISC HQ
New York – Mr. Melo
Chicago – Parachute
Philadelphia – Percy Sound Lounge
Denver – ESP Hi-Fi
Portland – Daydream
Austin – Equipment Room
Dallas – Shyboy Hi-Fi
Omaha – Oto Hi-Fi Lounge
West Palm Beach – Rust & Wax
