Those Canadians are just never content to stay in one band, eh? Dan Bejar, of Destroyer and The New Pornographers fame, has a brand new project, Hello, Blue Roses, brewing with Lady Sydney Vermont, the woman he is “romantically entwined” with.  Bejar describes the upcoming album as “European pastoral music butting up against a harsh 80’s reality” that is “completely untethered to any of the bullshit streams coursing through the scene right now.” The duo’s album isn’t due until January 22nd of ’08, but they will be releasing two tour-only 7”s with Frog Eyes and Starless & Black Bible in the coming months. Check out the track, “Shadow Falls” from the upcoming self-titled album right here.

The upcoming New Pornographers album, entitled “Challengers,” will be released worldwide (with the exception of Canada) on Matador Records. The album will feature cover art from band member Neko Case. The artwork above is not the final design, but will be available for purchase on a screenprint poster at their concerts. Those of you who are lucky enough to be attending Coachella will have the first opportunity to pick up the snazzy poster, which will have an individualized code that guarantees you a copy of “Challengers” on its release date.

The NPs are still in the process of mixing the album, but have some upcoming shows to hold you over until its release. Neko Case has solo tour dates, so I’m unsure as to whether she’ll be performing with the band. I suggest taking any chance you have to see them live. Their energetic powerpop rock will have you dancing the entire time.

Continue Reading