As you know, here at The Deli we aim our focus mostly on emerging, promising local artists rather than "established" ones, but today I’d like to spend a few words for a band signed to a major, which was featured on the cover of The Deli back in 2008, and whose second full length, notwithstanding the departure of a band member, successfully developed in new exciting directions. We finally found some time to listen to Chairlift‘s the new album "Something" and we were very impressed with it, but mostly with the band’s loyalty to their signature sensual quirkiness. I don’t think many people in the industry would have bet their money on the duo after Aaron Pfenning left, and I won’t deny that – as much as I loved the debut "Does You Inspire You" – I was amongst the sceptics too. It is indeed easy for a pop band to buy into the temptation of getting even poppier after signing a deal with Columbia Records. But Caroline Polachek and Patrick Wimberly obviously stood up to the challenge.
A video like this one for the single "Amanaemonesia" perfectly exemplifies how the duo not only put themselves out there, but doubled the stakes, with Caroline showcasing that in these 3 years not only she’s become a better singer, but she’s obviously improved her performing skills in the dancing department. Our favorite single from the album, "Sidewalk Safari" (streaming below) it’s just a great pop song that works on all levels. Emerging bands out there, there’s lots to learn from these guys.
