Double J Pick of the Week - Kurt Vile

Kurt Vile
Pretty Pimpin'
(Matador Records / Remote Control)

Kurt Vile has gone from obscure stoned genius to almost mainstream folk hero in just a few short years. So it stands to reason that he's not changing much about his approach to songwriting in new single Pretty Pimpin'. In fact the only real difference lies in the fact that he's getting better. Yes, this is one of the finest Kurt Vile songs ever.

His tuneful ramble is as notable for its rhythm as it is for its melody. His vocal is reminiscent of the way Isaac Brock's vocal propels the music of Modest Mouse. This works particularly well given the lyrics are brilliant; Vile sings about being disconnected from oneself, a serious concern, with a little wry humour.

It's great to see Vile working with Rob Schnapf on his new record b'lieve i'm goin' down.... Schnapf has produced plenty of great records, but it's his work with Elliott Smith (Either Or, XO, Figure 8) that makes us think he's an excellent choice to join Team Vile.

Watch the video for Pretty Pimpin' here