We all have people that we look up to. They’re the ones who inspired us and molded us into who we are today. Our admiration for them is sometimes so strong that we want to create something for them that is worthy and brings justice to their memory. Though, not a lot of people can pull it off.
New Jersey indie band Pine Barons are among those able to create a product that gives homage perfectly. Their latest release and also the cover track to their upcoming album I LOVE FISH, “ナイトクルージング” (“Night Cruising”) is one of the songs that pay tribute to Japanese band Fishmans, which had a distinct psychedelic sound.
Fishmans’ lead singer, Shinji Sato, passed away in 1999 and left a gaping hole in Japanese psych-pop—a hole that Pine Barons’ tribute album hopes to remedy. Their “Night Cruising” is definitely a triumph in giving the Japanese band the attention that they deserve.
Although being a cover track, Pine Barons’ rendition of the song is different from the original, yet retains its psychedelic charm. The progression of the instrumental is similar, yet lower. Vocals are more of a head tone than a nasal, almost falsetto one, and the runtime is halved from the original song. Nevertheless, everything is where it’s supposed to be and still gives that trippy vibe that Fishmans were known for.
This is just a sneak peek of what’s to come. The album will be full of Pine Barons’ own renditions and revivals of the iconic band’s music, and we’re all here for it.
Watch the music video for “ナイトクルージング” below.
Hans is an engineering student with a growing dismay for math. As ironic as that sounds, he’s always looking for a break from digesting numbers and symbols by indulging in things he likes instead: music, writing, and video games. This guy is also the type to hog the microphone on karaoke night, so be careful when you’re inviting him for some singing over drinks.
