Witch Gardens - “Aunt Shae/Mean Colleen”

As you may have noticed, Witch Gardens are no stranger to this blog. The signature harmonies and old-fashioned summertime melodies of this Seattle four-piece have earned a special place in my heart. After taking some time to record their upcoming full-length I’d Rather Be Alone, the band has released three tracks that appear on their new 7” record called R-I-P.

“Aunt Shae/Mean Colleen” is the lead single from the EP, and is one of the band’s finest, albeit longest tracks to date. After an intro that wouldn’t have felt out of place on Animal Collective’s Feels, Witch Gardens breaks into more familiar territory with their catchy female-led vocal hooks and traditional sunny melodies. As a statement of purpose, the song lyrics announce that the band has “Something to show you, it’s not a costume… it’s a lifestyle!” Just when you think the song is over, “Mean Colleen” picks up the tail end—a coda that works as a stand-alone pop single in itself.

The suite is coupled with two shorter but equally cheerful songs called “Bakers Dozen” and “Standard Poodle.” All three tracks are currently available for free download on bandcamp. However, I recommend buying the 7” vinyl record from Portland’s Water Wing Records. Keep a keen eye out for the music video for “Aunt Shae/Mean Colleen,” as well as Witch Gardens’ forthcoming full-length I’d Rather Be Alone.

High Wolf - “Swallow Your Pills With Ganga River Water”

[A Guide to Healing 7”, Bathetic, 2011]

“If you dive into the Ganges River - the purest water on earth according to the Hindus, the most polluted and unhealthy according to science - hold your breath and open your ears, this music is what you’ll hear.”

When I close my eyes, the colors I see…

Open up your chakras and fire up the bong for this transcendental new b-side from enigmatic psych producer High Wolf. Acoustic sound loops of dizzying exotica will lift the mind to outer realms and distant planes.

This track is part of a 7” inspired by High Wolf’s eye-opening travels in India. A Guide to Healing is currently out on Bathetic Records. You can purchase the record alongside the single ”Free Your Energy Field” from the label’s website. Strap on some headphones and dive into your liquid shrine.