Inger Klekacz from opbmusic
May 1, 2013 - Songwriter Josh Tillman had his first proper release in 2006 with the album Minor Works. After half a dozen albums put out as J Tillman and a three year stint as the drummer for the Fleet Foxes, the Baltimore native decided to adopt the moniker Father John Misty.
Fear Fun is his debut as Father John Misty, and it incorporates the influence of his move to Laurel Canyon, California, with a taste of neo-psychedelia. As the album gained momentum, many commented on the free form dance moves Tillman likes to incorporate in his performances, whether it’s in front of a TV camera or a club audience. He talks about his much discussed stage presence as well as what drove him to take on the Father John Misty persona.
Plus, two other engaging debut albums. One from visual artist and songwriter Benji Schneider who drew his inspiration from a trip home to Michigan. He wrote the songs on the shores of Lake Huron, the body of water from which he drew his project’s name, Lord Huron. The other debut travels to us from across the pond, as Scotland’s Django Django share their self titled first effort. It was nominated for the prestigious Mercury Prize in 2012.