I seem to be in the habit of making contributions about highly influential bands lately. Today I return to the genius that is Mark Kozelek but focus on the band he originated from. San Francisco’s Red House Painters are one of the more influential bands I can think of, their mark crossing over to a multitude of musical genres. They began their careers with “Down Colorful Hill“, released in 1992 on the legendary 4AD label. While only containing six songs, this release displayed song after song of painful reminiscing of yesteryear, recapturing old friendships and aging. The undeniably beautifully depressing music on this EP not only caught the eye of 4AD who picked it up, but legions of music fans and critics alike. Red House Painters have since released six other albums.

It was difficult for me to not only choose which song to contribute, but from which album. Red House Painters have consistently released high quality albums each with their own distinct personality. The only disappointment I’ve had is with their latest release, “Old Ramon“. I decided to go for “Japanese to English” from their “Down Colorful Hill” debut EP. The song is a great representation of Red House Painters and anyone with a taste for dark music and an ear will be able to immediately pick out which bands they have influenced so greatly. Another absolute standout track on this EP is the song “24″, in which Kozelek laments about his aging (turning 24!). It’s a song I played on repeat on my 24th birthday — a song designed for the despair you may feel as you get older. Not that it makes you feel any better, but I suppose that’s not the point.

Just a brief glance at the cover art for this EP or other Red House Painters releases (”Self Titled #1“, “Self Titled #2“, “Ocean Beach“, “Songs for a Blue Guitar“… even the wonderful “Retrospective“) will give you immediate insight into the emotions you are in store for. As with Kozelek’s solo releases, Red House Painters is a “love it or leave it” affair. I love it.

Japanese to English (Download)
Red House Painters (Artist)
Purchase CD