I wrote a post for this week’s Bank Robber Music blog on my five favorite tracks that Bank Robber licenses:
What initially attracted me to Bank Robber was its superb, unparalleled catalogue. I mean, a place whose roster counts (or has counted) Rilo Kiley, Land of Talk, Tilly and the Wall, AND Nada Surf alone seems like a dream.
Since I began interning in January, I’ve discovered some amazing songs, After careful deliberation, my 5 favorite BRM tracks are (guitar tremolo…):
1. “Runaway” by Imperial Teen: This song sounds like the indie “Call Me Maybe,” and I mean that in the best way possible. I heard this jillion of joy playing in Lyle’s office my first day, and I knew I was in the right place. Or at least that I discovered the best jogging song ever. I went on to delve into older Imperial Teen gems, like “Pig Latin” and “Do It Better.” If only I hadn’t been a 7 year old when Seasick came out…
2. “Betty Wang” by Hospitality: Another Merge track, “Betty Wang” has lyrics that instantly drew me in. Who is she? Why might she leave New York? Isn’t Wang a Chinese not Japanese surname? I’ve since learned that Betty Wang was the only other female investment banker on Amber Papini’s team at work. As a side note, I’m pretty sure I found the real Betty Wang’s LinkedIn profile.
3. “Chair” by Big Deal: I found this grunge-acoustic masterpiece on a BRM compilation CD. This is one of those songs that upon discovery, you listen to over and over again. It helps that it’s a short song, clocking in just under 3 minutes. I love how they slightly change the second chorus, and the absence of drums doesn’t bother me anymore. This song is perfect for the credits of HBO’s Girls.
4. “You’re The Runner” by Mitten: I stumbled upon “You’re The Runner” when I was asked to transcribe the lyrics. Luckily, I found the lyrics on Mitten’s Bandcamp, but I still took the opportunity to listen closely. I’m usually not into electro-synth and distorted bass, but they combine so well with the driving drums and vocals. Lyrically it epitomizes energetic angst.
5. “Not Earned” by Palomar: I’d never heard of this band before. Palomar reminds me of early Rilo Kiley (circa 2002) if RK were an all female band. “Not Earned” is a perfect cycle – it starts and ends the same. The line “You must feel pretty safe with all your records around you” is also a brilliant maxim for any music lover.