Former Squirrel Nut Zippers bandmates Jimbo Mathus and Andrew Bird are working together again! This time it’s on “Sweet Oblivion,” the lead single off their upcoming album These 13 and Dan’s DJ Pick of the Week.
This folk-country track sees the two really leaning into the idea of Americana, jamming out to a bright, hopeful melody. Bird takes lead vocal and fiddle duty while Mathus shines on a beautiful guitar part. The song is simple, and that’s part of what makes it so great. In the vein of folk classics past, the lyrics are repetitive, giving both musicians space to flex their individual musical muscles.
Listening to Bird and Mathus sing this feels like being instantly transported to a camping getaway (which, once the weather gets a little nicer, sounds like a pretty fun COVID-safe endeavor). There’s a singalong-type charm all over the song. I dare you to resist having a smile on your face while you’re listening to it. Bet you can’t.
Check out a live performance of the track—appropriately set deep in the mountains—below!
Be sure to tune into 100.1 FM or lightning100.com to hear “Sweet Oblivion” by Jimbo Mathus & Andrew Bird featured as Dan’s DJ Pick of the Week. Be sure to let us know your thoughts! Tweet at us with #L100DJPick and share your take on the track.
