Timothy Showalter, better known as Strand Of Oaks, released his fourth studio album, Heal, this past June and has been touring non-stop since its release. Today, he released a cover of "Pink Rabbits" by The National, and you can listen to it above.
Heal marked a significant style change in his career. It's the first record of his that doesn't have strong folk and folk rock influences. He uses synthesizers, organs and electric guitar to create a more psychedelic oriented sound. On his cover of "Pink Rabbits," he keeps it true to the original song, but he replaces the brooding piano with ethereal organs that make the listener feel like they are trapped in a dark void. The change works well and keeps the melancholia of the original intact.
Showalter told Magnet about why he chose to cover "Pink Rabbits":
The most important song for me in recent memory. A lot of music is great but not important. Listening to “Pink Rabbits” became mandatory for me. I would associate this song with my lost month or months last fall. I unfortunately discovered that drinking potato vodka alone with the only the National to keep you company can be dangerous. I would find myself talking with angels and other crazy shit when this song was on repeat. Then I realized I don’t have to get fucked up to love this record. This song saved me and destroyed me simultaneously.
You can listen to Heal in its entirety right here on Zumic. The album is out now and available on Amazon.
For the latest on Strand Of Oaks, including news, music, and upcoming tour dates, check out his Zumic artist page.
Source: Dead Oceans YouTube Channel