Track Review: Feist – “How Come You Never Go There”

[Interscope; 2011]

How Come You Never Go There is exactly what you’d expect from a Feist track: crisp production values, longing vocals, harmonies, and a sophisticated layering of instruments accompanying the sound of a tight band. Its emphasis on piano and drums are particularly reminiscent of The Reminder’s “My Moon My Man.” But the singer-songwriter has come to a point in her career where even the most basic of songs turn out to be impressive treats.

Perhaps it’s because of Feist’s expertise in the studio – a musician who not only understands the nooks and crannies of studio production, but also the basics of creating a catchy tune. So while the first single of her upcoming LP might not be as, say, radical as the material we’ve heard from the Metals trailers, it’s still a great track that succeeds on Feist’s most basic formula. Who knows, it may end up being the most conventional track on the new record.

8/10