HEADY MEDS

posted in: Artist Features • Rock

There’s a certain sort of music that any self-respecting indie lover keeps loaded on the iPod for the most emotionally sensitive of situations. Like when you’re facing your first makeout session with a new sweetheart, or recovering from a bad breakup that leaves your black-rimmed glasses fogged with tears. Bon Iver, Iron and Wine, Fields ”any of these soothing salves work wonders on aching hearts, frazzled nerves or restless sleeps. Here’s one more to add to your playlist: Northampton, Massachusetts’ Winterpills.

Vivid and visceral, Winterpills create spacious slowcore rife with romanticism. Led by the gossamer vocal harmonies of singers Philip Price and Flora Reed, the band takes listeners through songs of sad boys, chamomile breezes and bee-stung hearts. The arrangements are minimal and organic, but never too sleepy. The electric whinny of guitar, analog crackles and shifting rhythms keep the mood dynamic, if low-key. Next time your Elliott Smith CD skips, or you’re sick of Fleet Foxes, give these guys a spin”they’re sure to seduce and sedate.