sac·cha·rine

BON IVER: Beth/Rest

So Justin Vernon finally unveiled his video for hands-down the most left-field cut from last year’s Bon Iver.

I interned with All Songs when the promo for this album dispersed—meaning, I opened the envelop addressed to Bob with it inside. I knew he’d been anticipating its arrival, as were (obvi) plenty of other kids from NPR Music’s editorial department. Not much longer after I dropped it proudly on his desk did we and other stoked folk descend to an infrequently used sound booth one floor down to preview.

At least Bob, Stephen, Andy and I (sorry if I forgot anyone) sat in dark as the whole album played. In between songs, the silence maintained. Then “Beth/Rest” started with all its shameless synth. I broke the holy, respected iron curtain and laughed. So Justin has a sense of humor after all, I thought.

Well, maybe he does, but it became clear when no one joined my cackling that this track wasn’t exactly an example of it. It eventually grew on me like a lazy disease and now I think it’s alright or whatever.

Anyway, Vernon himself and Dan Huiting direct the above video. Definitely makes me crave a marshmallow person suit. One that glows, preferably.