Bon Iver has gifted us all with two brand new songs overnight, which first appeared during London’s All Points East Festival on Sunday. Led by Justin Vernon, both tracks feature an array of talented artists. The premiere of the tracks was also accompanied by a website (icommai.com), which appeared at the end of the clips on the screens at the festival.
Vernon said in a statement, "This project began with a single person, but throughout the last 11 years, the identity of Bon Iver has bloomed and can only be defined by the faces in the ever growing family we are.” The new songs sees Vernon reach out to the likes of Bruce Hornsby, Moses Sumney, Jenn Wasner, Elsa Jensen, Psymun, Phil Cook, the Brooklyn Youth Chorus, as well as many others.
Though the tracks are different, they're both deeply moving. 'Hey, Ma' is a soothing and nostalgic song that portrays strong imagery of childhood and a mother's love. 'U (Man Like)' is a piano-driven and gospel-inspired ballad that explores modern social issues.
Until it's time for Bon Iver's highly anticipated fourth album, you can enjoy 'Hey, Ma' and 'U (Man Like)' below.
Written by Amy Smolcic (@amysmolcic)
'Hey, Ma':
'U (Man Like)':
