David Berman remains a cherished figure within indie circles, and the author behind the Silver Jews and Purple Mountains commands a loyal following during his lifetime—one that now seems to regard him as even more influential in the 2020s. That influence appears to extend beyond the rugged, idiosyncratic, country-tinged bands that occupied his immediate orbit.
King Hüsky is Vidar Landa’s softer, catchier solo project; Landa is the guitarist for Norway’s Kvelertak, a band notorious for blending black metal with party-rock energy. It isn’t the first name I’d expect to reinterpret a Berman song, but today he unveils his version of “Punks In The Beerlight,” the luminous opening track from Tanglewood Numbers (2005). King Hüsky has tinkered with the arrangement, delivering Berman’s lyrics without the raw, obtuse bite that once made his words land with such blunt force, and the original’s urgency has yielded to something more laid-back. It gives off a vibe that reminds me, perhaps, of Kings Of Convenience?
Hear Landa’s take on the song below.
“Punks In The Beerlight” is King Hüsky’s portion of a split 7″ with tourmate Selma French, who covered the Roches’ “Hammond Song,” a track that’s been getting renewed attention in recent years. You can buy the record here.
