Deerhoof: Artist You Should Know

I have to admit – I’m a new Deerhoof fan. While I’ve been hearing about the San Francisco-based band’s quirky, almost experimental, pop for years, I’ve never really dug deep into their recordings. But when I heard that KCRW DJ and music maniac Henry Rollins(happy 50^th birthday, Henry!) was the first to debut their new record Deerhoof vs Evil (their 11th album in 14 years) on his show, I realized I better start paying attention.

Henry played the record in its entirety in early January, weeks before release, saying “Deerhoof vs. Evil distinguishes itself by being a record the band recorded, mixed and mastered on their own in rehearsal places and basements. If you are a fan of the band, I think you will dig their new album.”

I’d like to add that you don’t have to be a longtime fan to dig it. Its pretty likeable on all levels. Their avant-garde nature is toned down just enough to make their music a bit more accessible but maintaining the colorful playfulness that sets them apart, in large part thanks to Satomi Matsuzaki’s sweet vocals.

It’s a great record and we’re spinning lots of tracks. My personal favorite is “Behold a Marvel in the Darkness.”

Deerhoof – Behold a Marvel in the Darkness by Polyvinyl Records

Enjoy!

RR

p.s.: I went out to dinner with the Professor of Indie Rock Wendy Fonarow last week and were discussing how food is the new indie rock. We were enjoying a meal based on molecular gastronomy and wondering what band would represent this avant-garde type of food and Deerhoof came immediately to mind. Check out the article she wrote for the UK Guardian in part based on our conversation. Check out the comments!