7 More Hidden Gems by Bands You Already Love
If you’ve gotten through the first edition of this article, then welcome back! If not, then prepare yourself for a world of overlooked songs that deserve some love.
1. “The Kids Don’t Stand a Chance” by Vampire Weekend
As the closing song on Vampire Weekend’s premiere album, this song doesn’t get the attention it deserves. With a delightful mix of keys, harmonies, and even a cello solo, this song is towards the top of my list whenever I go on an Ezra Koenig binge.
2. “Sea Legs” by The Shins
This song is just so cool. Here, you’ll find a spot-on bass line, lingering violin, and a tasteful drum beat that holds everything together beautifully.
3. “Black and White” by Generationals
Generationals is a band that tends towards upbeat tunes with energetic choruses. Here, they have succeeded in creating a song that is somber and resonant to its core. This is one of those songs in which every element represented is so simple, yet the effect on the listener is dynamic and impactful.
4. “Art Exhibit” by Young the Giant
After a somewhat anticlimactic sophomore album, Young the Giant came back swinging with their third album, “Home of the Strange.” This album has an important story to tell, and their sound evolved into something unique and different their norm. That evolution is put fully on display with “Art Exhibit,” which makes a transformation from ukulele to crispy guitar to a full-on badass crescendo.
5. “Take the Fifth” by Spoon
Spoon has been around for quite some time now, which means there are many recluse songs to bring out of the shadows. This song that an upbeat rock melody that I imagine playing in a biker bar somewhere in North Dakota.
6. “Brother” by Lord Huron
This just so happens to be the first record I ever owned, so I’ve listened to this album through and through. One thing that has always eluded me is the reason why this song never took off. Sure, it’s repetitive in nature, but it never gets old. Give it a listen and then try and convince me your day isn’t a little bit brighter.
7. “The Greatest Man That Ever Lived” by Weezer
Weezer’s first attempt at a rock ballad succeeds with flying colors, but is hidden in the middle of their 2008 “Red Album.” This song takes you everywhere from soft piano to hard rock to choir music, making it a blast to sing along to. Pay attention to the lyrics so you can let loose during your second listen.
