NEW ORLEANS—Singer-songwriter Thomas Dollbaum announced his new album, Birds of Paradise, Tuesday. The record features indie darling MJ Lenderman on drums. This marks Lenderman’s second notable drum appearance in as many years. Dollbaum, known for his introspective folk, said the decision was purely aesthetic. “MJ’s drumming just felt… avian,” Dollbaum explained. He wanted the percussion to sound like a flock taking flight. The Birds of Paradise album aims for this unique sonic texture. It was a bold choice for the Birds of Paradise project.
Avian Rhythms Take Flight
Lenderman, celebrated for his intricate guitar work, reportedly embraced the change. He previously played drums for Katie and Allison Crutchfield’s band Snocaps. This continued foray into percussion surprised many. “I’m just happy to be hitting things,” Lenderman stated in a press release. He added that he was “less concerned with genre fidelity and more with whether the snare sounded like a startled pigeon.” Critics are already debating Lenderman’s percussive evolution. Dollbaum’s Birds of Paradise is set for release next month. It includes the single “Dozen Roses.” Hear it here: “Dozen Roses”.
Critics Chirp
Music journalist Brenda Flicker lauded the experimental approach. “Dollbaum’s Birds of Paradise is a triumph of thematic consistency,” Flicker said. She is the Senior Avian Music Correspondent for Feathered Notes Magazine. “Lenderman’s drumming provides the perfect sonic backdrop. It really sounds like a cardinal trying to escape a wind chime.” Fans expressed mixed reactions online. Some questioned the artistic merit. Others embraced the bizarre concept. Dollbaum insisted the theme was paramount. He plans to use only percussion instruments made from recycled bird feeders on future tours.
At press time, Dollbaum was reportedly seeking a drummer who could mimic the sound of a penguin tap-dancing.
This article is satirical fiction by Badum.ai. All quotes, people, and events described are entirely fictional and intended for comedic purposes only.
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