Song of the Day: Eyelids - Falling Eyes

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 DJ’s think you should hear. Today’s song, featured on the Morning Show with John Richards, is “Falling Eyes" by Portland band Eyelids, from their new album, Or, out now on Jealous Butcher Records.

Eyelids - Falling Eyes (MP3)If you're not familiar with the Eyelids, you're probably at least familiar with a few of the band members' other projects. The lineup is rounded out by members of Guided By Voices, The Decemberists, and Stephen Malkmus & The Jicks as well as having worked with artists like Elliott Smith, Quasi, and Jason Lyttle. Throw on top of that the fact that R.E.M.'s Peter Buck produced their latest album, it's no wonder that the group is making some of the dreamiest indie rock in the region.

"Falling Eyes" lets the band showcase what makes their members so sought after by left-of-the-dial legends, but also demonstrates how exceptional they are as songwriters working as a single unit. From the opening chiming notes, it already has that classic feel of their former projects. Lead vocalist Chris Slusarenko's whisper-like vocals move smoothly over the jangling riffs like a lush haze. Each section of the song feels like a hook, sticking in your ear and not letting go. Just when you think it couldn't get catchier, it comes through with a triumphant chorus of "Falling eyes, falling next to me." The pump is already primed to roll down the windows and enjoy a melancholic, sunny afternoon (please, Seattle?).

Eyelids will be in Seattle on June 10, performing at the Conor Byrne in Ballard. More information can be found on the band's website and Facebook. In the meantime, check out the video below for "Falling Eyes", featuring the one and only Peter Buck.