ACL Spotlight: John Vanderslice

In this edition of ACL Spotlight we will be taking a look at one of the most overlooked names in indie rock: John Vanderslice.  Follow the jump for more.

San Francisco’s own John Vanderslice has released some of the most critically acclaimed records of the past decade.  Beginning with his debut album, Mass Suicide Occult Figurines, on Barsuk in 2000 to this years Romanian Names (his first release on Dead Oceans), Vanderslice has become known as one of the most well-read and well-liked performers in the game today.

Besides releasing seven spectacular full length albums John Vanderslice has also enriched our lives by owning and operating Tiny Telephone Recording Studio, which has recorded artists such as Death Cab for Cutie, Mates of State, Okkervil River, and the Mountain Goats.

Besides releasing Romanian Names this year, Vanderslice also released a joint ep with Mountain Goats own, John Darnielle, and embarked on a solo acoustic tour with him. Vanderslice also enlisted the Magik*Magik Orchestra (Tiny Telephone’s house orchestra) for a live performance of songs from his back catalog in celebration of Tiny Telephones 10th Anniversary.  It was maybe one of the most beautiful things I have ever heard.

Whether you are in a cramped bar or in wide open field at a festival, John Vanderslice never fails to satisfy in a live setting. Come check him out on Saturday October 3rd at the BMI Stage starting at 6:40 p.m.

[audio: https://austintownhall.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/04/john-vanderslice-fetal-horses.mp3]

Download: John Vanderslice – Fetal Horses [MP3]