D-(eye) on Arts: Bon Hiver

So says the French phrase meaning, "good winter." Eau Claire, Wisconsin musician Justin Vernon, aptly named his band Bon Iver several years ago, which has gained an emerging presence in today's music. The project took inspiration during a time where Vernon was in lowly stances. He had lost a band, a girl friend, and suffered from mononucleosis. With six years of pain behind him, Vernon escaped to northern Wisconsin in the middle of winter, where he could take solace in the tranquil, remote cabin. In his three-month stay, he poured his emotion into a debut album titled For Emma, Forever Ago. The unique composition of vocal harmonies, "entangled lyrics", and layers of ambiance gives listeners a sense of Vernon's emotion. The album, recorded solely by Vernon himself, blew up across the nation. He took on other musicians to create a touring band, one that has been all over the world. The story of his success is fascinating to many, but the music Bon Iver creates has an even stronger effect.

Here's their most recognizable song, "Skinny Love", performed live.

Bon Iver "Skinny Love" from Isaac Day on Vime

Bon Iver, comprised of Vernon, Michael Noyce, Sean Carey, and Matthew McCaughan, is currently on a long break after touring for three years. But they will be back. For those who can't get enough Bon Iver, especially during these winter months, keep your Friday night open. At the Mill,120 East Burlington St, Bon Iver’s Sean Carey will perform his first solo album, in which he took heavy inspiration from Vernon’s style. Carey also draws from many other bands and musicians he’s seen while on tour, and has truly created a unique sound that is vast and natural in each composition. Here’s a sample of Carey’s brilliance in the song, “In The Dirt.”

In My Room: S Carey "In the Dirt" from Yours Truly on Vimeo.

The group, titled S. Carey, takes the stage Friday night at 9 p.m. Admission is $8 in advanced, and $10 at the door. This is set up to be a great winter show, especially with opening act, White Hinterland. The electronic group is led by the vocals of Casey Dienel. Check them out before you go also.