Ok, so as the story goes, Marcata (home to many recording artists but pretty much always referred to as 'That Walkmen studio in Harlem') was a week from closing shop and The Walkmen was toying with the idea of recreating the Lennon/Nillson classic Pussy Cats. What first was a sort of joke between the band quickly became reality and the band recorded their take on the album in about 5 days.The result is excellence. Each song on the album, from the thunderous opener 'Many Rivers To Cross' to the melancholic 'Black Sails' showcases the true range of Hamilton's vocals. As hinted at on 100 Miles Off, Hamilton can do more than scream down a track (although we all know and love him for that; 'Thinking Of A Dream I Had' is one of my favorite Walkmen tunes of all time) to garner your full attention.
If I were to pair this album with an existing Walkmen album, I assume I'd actually sit it alongside of Everyone Who Pretended To Like Me Is Gone. Both albums have that kind of haunting quality. Although, perhaps with Pussy Cats that eery feeling comes from knowing the back story to the album, and from the handful of familiar songs that it tackles with such a Walkmen-esque appreciation.
Honestly, it will probably fall within my top albums of the year. Dare I say it will become a classic, in its own right.
MP3: 'Don't Forget Me'
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