Public Universal Friend Covers Son Lux + Hanna Benn
MFT is reviving The Indiana Covers Project, a creative program that celebrates and showcases the music of Indiana. Musical Family Tree, in partnership with the generous folks at Postal Recording Studio, provides Indiana musicians with a one day recording session where the musicians record a cover of one of their favorite songs written by a Hoosier, and then release it via Musical Family Tree’s complimentary listening platforms.
“Everything from vocals, drums, and instrumentalists were pushed outside our comfort zones to create something we’re really proud of.”
Kicking off the restart of the Indiana Covers Project is Public Universal Friend, covering Son Lux + Hoosier native Hanna Benn’s beautiful and haunting song “Apart”. Featuring Jody Friend on vocals and banjo, Ty Mason on bass, Adam Shuntich on guitar, Mina Keohane on preacher’s organ and background vocals, Phil Lofton on percussion, and Jacob Powell on drums and background vocals.
Says Jody Friend of why they chose this song, “As a band we decided to cover something that’s a new sound for us, “Apart,” by Son Lux, a band we all love and respect as composers, performers, and visionaries. Everything from vocals, drums, and instrumentalists were pushed outside our comfort zones to create something we’re really proud of. We’re stoked to see Son Lux nominated for an Oscar for scoring the film Everything Everywhere All At Once and could not be more excited for them, especially as a group with ties to Indiana.”
“This song was immediately arresting in its sounds and composition.”
Adds drummer Jacob Powell, “This song was immediately arresting in its sounds and composition. I was excited to work on it but realized I would have to play it like I’m drunk. Questlove's time with the Soulguarians helped created a style where the drummer didn't line up all of his notes... on purpose! This touch of fallible asymmetry gave the songs an organic feel that somehow made the songs feel EVEN groovier. It can feel confusing for drummers who are taught to stick to the grid! It was also a little nerve-racking to tell the band that "you might be confused by how I'm playing". But the final record is a testament to the ability of the individuals in this group and the harmony that we find together!”
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