Today was the release of Thao with The Get Down Stay Down’s new record, Know Better Learn Faster, on Kill Rock Stars. I hope it shatters the most optimistic projections for sales, becomes a cultural touchstone for Autumn in 2009, and gets in on that Nobel prize action. Why the enthusiasm? Well it’s a great record, and success couldn’t happen to a nicer person.
I asked Maggie Vail if she’d talk to Thao about the CASH Music fundraiser. Not only did Thao say yes to getting involved, she literally offered us her heart.
Seriously. Thao offered to send us the paper mache heart from the Know Better Learn Faster cover. She didn’t stop there, and asked if it would be okay if she did a sort of singing telegram for the fundraiser. A song written just for the winner, carrying any message as long as its positive. Such a great idea, and it holds all the charm and energy you hear in this latest record.
As for the album itself, Know Better Learn Faster will make a lot of favorite lists by year’s end. The band got a good deal of attention with their We Brave Bee Stings And All debut, and this record is a nice step forward. All the infectious energy is still present, hitting hard in tracks like ‘When We Swam,’ but there’s also an added degree of smart introspection in tracks like ‘Body’ and ‘Good Bye Good Luck.’ Thao also shows off her voice a bit throughout the record, carrying softer tracks with some really beautiful singing.
In a sentence, Thao with The Get Down Stay Down is a band that makes you feel good about music. They’re headed out on tour right now, so catch them when they’re close and put Know Better Learn Faster on your list of records to check out.
Thao wTGDSD’s CASH fundraiser contribution
Thao wTGDSD on Twitter
Buy Know Better Learn Faster
thaomusic.com