Here is an article about Gallant Covering My Blue Bucket of Gold
Sufjan Stevens is one of my favorite artists. I was lucky to see him twice in 2015, the second time with Gallant as his opening act. In addition to their amazing rendition of "Hotline Bling", this concert was an emotional roller coaster-- since the focus of Sufjan's album Carrie & Lowell is the death of his mother. The album speaks for itself and has not left my cd player for many months (except when we are rocking out to the Hamilton Soundtrack).
I think my enjoyment of this album says a lot about me and reflects my taste in music. I like acoustic and oftentimes seemingly depressing music. This type of music makes me feel a range of emotions, not just sadness or longing (though those are an element of my enjoyment). Many people think that because I like this type of music, I am a sad person-- but they are mistaken. I like music that makes me feel something-- and Sufjan makes me reminiscent of my youth. His lyrics are dense and oftentimes include allusions to religion, mythology, stories, fables and lots of other “stuff” that is a part of my life.
One aspect that really appeals to me about Sufjan's music is that it reminds me of my childhood. While our experiences with family are quite different, the way the music and lyrics work together just reminds me of a time when life was simpler and there were many fewer stresses. One song in particular that really reminds me of my youth is "The Predatory Wasp of the Pallisades is About to Get Us". This song in particular reminds me of my childhood friend. I would go to his house almost every weekend to play Nintendo and rent movies. I don't think there was anyone (other than family) that I spent more time with. We grew apart in middle school, but still considered each other friends for years to come. He has since passed away--- and this song reminds me of our adventures. Like the song says, "I love him each day" and often think of our time together.
