Yes, they actually are named after a type of grass.

I don't try to be elitist or obscure with the music I like. It just happens that way. Now back to being obscure...

I stumbled upon Vetiver (the band below) not too long ago...














...and it's pretty much sealed the deal that I've become a fan of Naturalismo.


What is Naturalismo?

In the most user friendly fashion, a simple definition: It's experimental folk music with prides itself on the idea it takes a naturalistic approach to the genre.

Devandra Banhart, a fellow folk musician and close friend of the band, said in a 2006 interview that, "...[E]verything is a derivative of nature. Everything. Even the most plastic, most synthetic things are derived from nature. The source of them is found in nature at some point. Naturalismo becomes a completely all-inclusive thing...it’s this anthropophagic attitude towards the world."

Vetiver is easily one of the most original, but abnormal bands I've heard in a while.

It is typical acoustic and percussion laced folk music and yet, it’s enigmatically different. It exposes a sense of surrealism and warmth in its simplicity that can only be conveyed by personal love of the genre.

It’s so easily accessible, but it strives to be different, without alienating its fans and the casual listener.

Frontman/songwriter for Vetiver, Andy Cabic’s vocals aren’t quite on the same plane of weirdness as Banhart or Conner Oberst, but it is definitely identifiable.

Getting accustomed to Cabric’s voice isn’t nearly as abrasive as the wavering drones of Oberst, so for first time listeners, Vetiver won’t be as much of a daunting task as the first time I heard Bright Eyes.

Throughout their three studio albums, the entire band fantastically utilizes numerous instruments, specifically engineered to evoke a dreamlike coma – leaving you dazed and wanting more.

www.myspace.com/vetiverse
www.vetiverse.com

P.S. - I understand not everyone is going to be as impressed by these guys as I am, but as long as you're open enough to new music that isn't always 'radio friendly', you'll always find something new and better out there. Music isn't dead, you're just not looking for it.