My 2014 Song of the Year: “Dearly Departed”
This is far and away my (syncopated-clapping, toe-tapping, driving along with the windows down singing harmonies at the top of my lungs) favorite song of 2014. Shakey Graves has shown up on this blog before, first with his tune “Late July” on the Summer 2012 mix, and his co-conspirator here Esmé Patterson (formerly of the Denver band Paper Bird) is someone whose music I have long admired.
There is a deeply delightful, timeless joy in a good clever duet.
Dearly Departed (featuring Esmé Patterson) – Shakey Graves
This video is the absolute best–when was the last time you saw two musicians having this much genuine fun?
YEAH YOU AND I BOTH KNOW
Shakey Graves plays our Ivywild School Sunday night, along with Esmé. It will be the final show I booked for the Ivywild, and I can’t wait to hear these songs live in that space.
The entire new album And The War Came is tremendous; highly recommended.
Name: Heather Browne
Agreed, wonderful song. Welcome back…we’ve missed you!
Jonathan — December 10, 2014 @ 5:51 pm
One of my favourites, too! Had the pleasure of seeing them perform this in Milwaukee last week.
Marisa — December 10, 2014 @ 6:53 pm
I really really hope this is not your ONLY “best of” list!!!
Kevin — December 10, 2014 @ 7:30 pm
First time I heard of Shakey was here. I now have the greatest pleasure to be watching him in concert at The Tuning Fork all the way on the other side of the world right here in New Zealand in Feb. Forget Xmas, Shakey is near!!!
Gareth — December 11, 2014 @ 12:52 am
I agree, this song has probably played more than any other for me this year. My personal “year’s best” cd that I burn for my family and friends seems lacking since your mixes were limited in 2014. More than a few of my favorite songs/artists have been introduced to me through your site. Thanks again!
Logan — December 11, 2014 @ 7:02 am
Is there a deeper reason that the mp3 is tagged with Good Medicine as the artist?
Mads — December 11, 2014 @ 11:47 am
Fell hard for Esmé Patterson this month. Her new album is an early 2015 favourite.
last year's girl — December 11, 2014 @ 2:53 pm
Whenever I’m looking for some new music I always come here. Once again you’ve introduced me to another great artist!
Mark — December 20, 2014 @ 5:56 pm
Thank you for this song – you really hooked us up this time
Gilbag — December 21, 2014 @ 12:08 pm
I just heard this song for the first time last week and got obsessed with it. I am a little out of touch with music and didn’t know how to find good recommendations. I was looking for Dearly Departed on some “best of” lists and didn’t see it so immediately distrusted those lists. Then I found your website – clicking through the archives, I have been introduced to so many great bands. Thank you!
Krystal — December 28, 2014 @ 7:14 pm
I agree, this is probably my song of the year 2014 and the album nears the top of my list as well.
Live By Satellite — December 30, 2014 @ 9:50 am