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MAGNET Feedback: Allen Stone

AllenStone

Seattle-based pop/soul upstart Allen Stone continues to impress on his recently released third album, Radius (Capitol). Whether he’s subtly bemoaning materialism or diving headlong into songs of unabashed devotion, Stone is fast establishing himself as not only a vital modern voice, but the coolest of cool locals. He hand-picked some of his favorite up-and-coming Emerald City bands to open a five-show record-release homestand. Take leadoff singles “Upside” and “Freedom” for a spin as you check out Stone’s impression of 10 tracks we sent his way: a mix of new releases and old standards that are right up his alley.

My Morning Jacket “Compound Fracture” from The Waterfall
The drums sound as big as Nicki Minaj’s tutti frutti. I dig that. This song makes me feel like doing illicit things in the freezer at a BK. I like that. Although I did have a compound fracture when I was a child, which I did not like. I give this song a win.

The Tallest Man On Earth “Dark Bird Is Home” from Dark Bird Is Home
Dig this tune. Makes me feel light. I enjoy songs that have dark lyrics, but yet make me feel good. It’s like a veggie burger. Is it meat? Kobe beef? Nope. It’s quinoa, bro. I wish I was a bird.

Alabama Shakes “Don’t Wanna Fight” from Sound & Color
This is the jam! I love this track. Mad pocket. Brittany’s voice is a force. Also the sickest of sick intros. The message is needed as well.

Sharon Van Etten “I Don’t Want To Let You Down” from I Don’t Want To Let You Down
Love the harmonies. I don’t want to let you down either, Sharon Van Etten. Meow. Played right after Sharon at BottleRock a couple years back. She slays.

Father John Misty “I Love You, Honeybear” from I Love You, Honeybear
“Fuck the world, damn straight.” Father John comes correct. Love this song and record.

Bob Dylan “I’m A Fool To Want You” from Shadows In The Night
Haunting. Follows you home at night. Steals your mail, but then replaces it with coupons for IHOP. Don’t turn this song on at a party or a wedding reception. Or do, actually.

Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings “Just Dropped In To See What Condition My Condition Was In” from The Dynamic Sound Of Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings
Love this version. This is one of the best songs ever. It is really easy to ruin this song. They succeeded at making it their own, but remained respectful to the original.

Stevie Wonder “Living For The City” from Innervisions
I opened for Stevie last year in France. He played this song, and it’s still as relevant today as the day he wrote it. The musical breakdown is my favorite part of the song.

Hall & Oates “Sara Smile” from Daryl Hall & John Oates
Oh yeahhhhhh, Hall & Oates. Those are the dudes. I toured with Daryl and Sharon Jones a couple years back, and we did this song. His delivery on the first chorus is timeless. So smooth. Like a cold beer at a Mariners game. There’s a sweet story behind this song as well.

Björk “Stonemilker” from Vulnicura
Björk is a pioneer of mushroom songs. I like this track. I think the full effect is experienced on hallucinogens, though.