Always the Bridesmaid: A Singles Series - Volume 1

Decemberists fans anxious for the group's new LP to come out can soon get their fix with the band's EP titled, ''Always the Bridesmaid: A Singles Series,'' a seven song release that will be hitting the web on October 14th, November 4th, and December 2nd. The three volume set, which includes the songs ''Valerie Plame,'' ''O New England,'' ''Days of Elaine,'' ''Days of Elaine (Long),'' ''I'm Sticking With You,'' ''Record Year for Rainfall,'' and ''Raincoat Song,'' does not disappoint fans of the multi-talented indie/pop band.

''Valerie Plame,'' a fun poppy song about the CIA operative whose cover was blown via a newspaper column written by Robert Novak, is classic Decemberists in terms of fun and catchy. The band's pop side resembles another fun band, Barenaked Ladies. Fans of the Ladies will find a nice soulmate with Decemberists. After listening to this song a few times, I found myself singing along with the lyrics. And that's not a sight you want to see. Be sure to watch ''Late Night with Conan O'Brien'' on November 3rd for the band's live performance of this song.

''Always the Bridesmaid'' is an awesome collection of music and Colin Meloy's storytelling hits on all cylinders once again.

BYLINE:

Jason Tanamor is the Editor of Zoiks! Online magazine. Visit it at http://zoiksmag.blogspot.com