I know we're supposed to be talking about web stuff...

I was realizing this week after watching the Grammy's that I've been totally bored with music this year... If you work in front of your computer all day (especially those who work on creative stuff), you've realized there is really nothing new out there. Obviously you can trust Thom Yorke for genius, but with the exception of In Rainbows most new music this last year just seemed sterile.

Thanks to emusic, I was introduced Bon Iver early last year. In the midst of a world of hyper-consumption, there was something that I completely resonated with in his music. The short version of his story was that he basically went away to Northern Wisconsin in his father's cabin in the woods after a break-up with his band, girlfriend, and fighting a sickness. He spent his whole time chopping wood, and recording music on old, analogue recording equipment. 

Needless to say, he manages to pull off on of the most amazing albums I've ever heard during his stay in Northern Wisconsin. He records all the instruments himself (you can hear the cabin floor creaking beneath him), and sings mostly in falsetto that conveys pain like nothing else. Bon Iver's album For Emma, Forever Ago has restored my hope in American music. So, thank you for your gift to music, Mr. Vernon. 

I really think the beauty of his album is that in the midst of a dollar-driven, American Idol music business, a lo-fi gem like For Emma, Forever Ago can emerge as one of the best albums of the year. Their recent release of their Blood Bank EP is pure genius too.

I'm not sure why I decided to write about this... Maybe a mixture of frustration and inspiration. Either way, you should check it out. If you ever get a chance to see them live, you need too. My wife and I were able to see them at the Troubadour a few months ago (ironically, the same day Radiohead was in LA), and we were blown away. 

So, be inspired.

//Jim