Wolf Parade v1.5

Apparently someone loves Wolf Parade more than I do. I know this because I have proof. The proof is a live, unofficial fan album circling the net called “Pardon My Blues.” Some big fan did everyone a favor and compiled the highest quality bootlegs of new songs the gang have been playing over the last year and a half or so. They even went as far as cutting out obnoxious audience chatter and making the album flow very nicely as if it were one live show. I love this person. Spencer, Dan and Co. recently revealed their tracklist for the still untitled album due out this June, which has added a whole new piece to the puzzle. Originally, the bootlegs were given titles by fans, which, for the most part, appear inaccurate. One track that can be officially identified is the Spencer -led, “Call It a Ritual,” previously known as “Billy J.” by fans. NPR gave a glimpse of the studio version last week, and today we finally get the full mp3. It doesn’t sound like they’re entering new territory, but thats probably a good thing because Apologies To The Queen Mary still rocks, and I’d love to have a sophomore effort in the same vein.

In the time since Apologies To The Queen Mary, both Dan Boeckner and Spencer Krug have made names for themselves through their respective side projects, Hansome Furs and Sunset Rubdown. The time spent apart has emphasized the differences between the two song writers, each great in their own right. I would even go as far as to draw parallels between Krug/ Boeckner and Lennon/ McCartney….. *waits for tomatoes to be thrown*…… though of course not in terms of popularity or legacy, but definitely in terms of how they compliment each other.

In this comparison, Spencer would definitely be Lennon. His songs on Apologies are more experimental and emotional, some might call him the more complex songwriter. Dan would then be the McCartney of the duo. Songs like “Shine A Light” and “Modern World” are the straightforward rockers and are immediately catchy.  Between the two, I can never choose a definite favorite. It almost depends entirely on my mood, which is probably why I like the balance of both so much in Wolf Parade and can’t wait for this album. Easily my most anticipated release this year. You should get hyped too.

DOWNLOADS

Wolf Parade – Call It A Ritual
Wolf Parade – Pardon My Blues [Live Compilation]

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