Mount Righteous

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l1DvYtHHKqU

Over the years I’ve struggled to maintain my status as music appreciator. It’s weird because I’ve played music as long as I can remember. I’ve written hundreds of songs, played in bands and even made my living as a musician for the better part of a decade. I usually like what I’m playing, but even my own stuff doesn’t really inspire me all of the time. It’s a rare thing when I get really excited about a band or musician. There have been a few bright spots of late: Wilco, Spoon, Sufjan Stevens, Sigur Ros, and I’m on the beginning end of a love affair with Arcade Fire.

Well, it happened again. My friend Sara, whom I work with, told me her sister is getting ready to go on tour with an acoustic, punk, marching band. “A what?” I said. She explained that Mount Righteous was the band name and they are really unique. I quickly punched up youtube and this is what I found. I’m hooked. I’m a fan. Watch this video, then buy their record. The whole thing is a riot.

Here’s what I love:

MR is completely unique, but not inaccessible. You will get it right away.
MR’s songwriting is really good – fantastic melodies, quirky arrangements, bizarre instrumentation – but it all works.
MR is hopeful without being naive, it is joyful but not blithe.
MR is self-aware without losing their innocence.

I’m listening to this stuff and remembering how fun it was when I was playing with bands for the first time; when everything was new and I had no idea where it was going; when I didn’t understand royalties, distribution, or radio airplay. If I had the power, I would make you listen to this record!