Song of the Day: Hibou - Dissolve

Every Monday through Friday, we deliver a different song as part of our Song of the Day podcast subscription. This podcast features exclusive KEXP in-studio performances, unreleased songs, and recordings from independent artists that our DJs think you should hear. Today’s song, featured on the Midday Show with Cheryl Waters, is “Dissolve” by Hibou from the upcoming self-titled album on Barsuk Records.

Hibou - Dissolve (MP3)

Hibou, the solo project of Craft Spells drummer Peter Michel, could easily be referred to as Seattle's answer to Washed Out. And while Michel's music definitely draws from dream pop, it is not afraid to venture outside of the genres expectations. That much is clear on single "Dissolve," where 80's guitar tones meander through layers of sound drenched in sunny disposition with Michel's slightly flanged vocals reiterating the mellow tone. But as soon as you think you have the track figured out, its shimmering guitars escalate into sunny sirens, raising the stakes of the song. If Hibou's self-titled debut LP holds any resemblance to the first single, it will be a must listen project.

Hibou the album comes out on Barsuk on September 18th, but you can catch Hibou the band at Barboza on August 21st when he opens for Cayucas. Get tickets and more info about that 21+ show here, keep up with Hibou on Twitter and Facebook. For now, watch the official video for "Above Us" from Hibou's 2013 Dunes EP: