Audraglint is a small independent US label from Portland with impeccable taste run by Brian Foote from Nudge (Kranky) and David Nakamoto, a graphic designer. Unless you’ve been particularly observant then you’ve also probably never heard of them. Limited edition releases with fabulous cover design, Silverware is their 5th anniversary label compilation bringing together a bunch of exclusive tracks which is a splendid introduction to the boutique label.
Silverware brings together a good portion of the US underground scene together with a few international ring-ins. There are the more well known names – Grizzly Bear who deliver an ethereal cover of Yes’ ‘Owner of a Lonely Heart’ (yes it is really possible!), German monotone-rs Tarwater, a more electronic sounding Valet, even Kid 606 turning in a bouncy bit of electronic guitar pop with Dwayne Sodahberk, and Caural delivering a humourous piece of literal boom bap. There is little filler here – Marc Hellner’s ‘Night Without Thieves’ is all melodic ‘snuggle under the blankets’ electronic pop, Stars As Eyes’ ‘Some Life’ is a motorik Krautrock, and there are some lovely fuzzy indie moments that wouldn’t be out of place on the Morr Music label from Orange & Allred, Nudge and The Sems.
Twenty excellent tracks from a great label – Silverware has been on high rotation in the last two months, and comes highly recommended.
Sebastian Chan
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