Of all the indie labels out there, a Merge is one of the best. So when they have a new artist to promote, I find it easier to sit down and give it a proper listen. And Ill admit, most of the time I dont regret that time at all. Merge has already pushed new releases from the likes of Camera Obscura, Spoon, and Portastic this year, with M Wards new gem on the way soon.
The newest Merge artist to catch my ear is White Whale. I think you will find the majesty of The Decemberists present, along with a grandiose that is all their own. And although these Lawrence, Kansas lads are as landlocked as one can be, they express their seafaring passions within their debut. Within the press release I was sent is this tidbit meant to describe the band as they set sail on their maiden voyage.
In White Whale’s maiden voyage, WWI, all glory and honor is theirs. Amassing the power of the Big Star with the fury of the Sabbath (Black) and the mesmerizing wiles of the Badfinger, the gentlemen of White (F-in’) Whale are not afraid to ask the musical question “What’s an Ocean For?” Beware ye Decemberists and those who would set the Arcade (a)Fire, the Okkervil River can not contain the enormity of White Whale.
With the above quote in mind, this is certainly a band that is not opposed to the comparison game. Here is a track from their album, due out this coming Tuesday, July 25.
Technorati Tags: Merge, Camera Obscura, Spoon, White Whale, Kansas
