New Wax


I like covers as much as the next guy, when I heard that San Francisco freak-folk band Vetiver was opting for a full album of covers rather than new material, I could't help but cringe. I really enjoyed their self-titled 2004 debut and their 2006 album To Find Me Gone, so I was hankering for some new songs. Luckily the band's new album Thing Of The Past isn't filled with instantly recognizable material. In fact, unless you're well-versed in 60's and 70's Americana and have a serious classic vinyl addiction, the tracks on Thing Of The Past will sound as good as new. The album opens with "Houses," a wonderful take on an obscure song from Elyse Weinberg's 1968 album Elyse which guest starred Neil Young. Backed by folksy acoustic guitars, lead singer Andy Cabic's voice is a gentle lull bridged by electric guitar riffs. Another highlight is a faithful yet more sonically eclectic rendition of Townes Van Zandt's "Standing." I won't pretend like I've ever heard of any of the other songs on this album, but the fun thing about Thing Of The Past, besides it being an example of quality folk music, is that it makes you want to seek out information about the original artists. Expanding your musical knowledge is never a bad thing. -- Capt. Obvious