Portland's Liz Harris, a.k.a. Grouper, is inspired by space. Mimicking its echoing vastness with spatially expansive layers of vocals and subtle melodies, she brings a sense of calm wonderment to her two latest releases: "Cassiopeia" and "Alien Observer."
"Cassiopeia," which can be heard at Gorilla vs. Bear due to restrictions on embedding, was made for Antiopic's Benefit for the Recovery in Japan. Haunting and delicate, subdued and full of graceful sadness, "Cassiopeia" demonstrates an empathy towards tragedy suited for a compilation aimed at providing relief. With 64 tracks for $15, including Grouper's beautiful track, it's super easy to want to spend the paper. Donate and check out a tracklisting here, including School of Seven Bells, Akron/Family, Prefuse 73 and Bear in Heaven.
Grouper also released her debut single to her upcoming double LP release, A / A, called "Alien Observer." Exclusively at Pitchfork – just can't win today! – this track carries some higher vocal tones that carry you through the song with a greater sense of exploration and wonderment. You can own the double LP, with individual records Alien Observer and Dream Loss, on April 11.