Track of the Day: 'Up on the North Shore'

Over the last 15 years, probably one of the most interesting bands from Chicago would have to be the post-rock juggernaut known as The Sea and Cake. Featuring a hot quartet of musicians from all corners of the Windy City scene, this group is fluent in styles ranging from modern jazz to retro Brazilian tones, all stirred into a proper indie-rock base.

Sam Prekop's stream-of-consciousness vocals may be a bit oblique, but I personally love not having to pay too much attention to lyrics. The tone may well be more important than the literal meaning anyway. Prekop and Archer Prewitt trade wonderful guitar lines here, and Tortoise member and producer-extraordinaire John McEntire lays down a steady beat with extra-smooth coverage from bassist Eric Claridge.

What, exactly, this song has to do with life up on the North Shore, I cannot say. But I can assure you that this new single is a musically sophisticated track, featuring perhaps the most polite feedback you'll hear all year. Good stuff, and it fits perfectly with the warm weather that's just around the corner.

The Sea and Cake - Up on the North Shore by thrilljockey

On iTunes: The Sea and Cake / "Up on the North Shore"