2000 Great Songs #1399: That's Just The Way That I Feel

I have to admit I wasn't nearly as much a fan of Silver Jews as most indie nerds. Sure, David Berman's association with Pavement held some appeal, and when I took the time to sit down and listen to the lyrics it could be a rewarding experience. But I found that the records sometimes kept me at arm's length (though I've gradually come to enjoy his body of work more over time).

Which is what makes Berman's 2019 return after a sitting out the prior decade so bittersweet. Now recording as Purple Mountains--Berman backed by indie freak-folk act Woods, whose work I had already enjoyed--the new band's eponymous record gave Berman's uniquely intense and introspective musings a more traditional, jangly Americana musical backing, some instrumental punch to help carry you through the bleakest spots. But the joy in an eminently listenable record was obviously offset when Berman took his own life weeks after its release. So, yeah, it's a little harder to listen to now than on first spin.

Still, give yourself a little emotional distance and tracks like opener "That's Just The Way That I Feel" remain riveting. "I've been humbled by the void, much of my faith has been destroyed. I've been forced to watch my foes enjoy ceaseless feasts of schadenfreude." I think I can relate. 

Live cover by The Majesties:

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