This new track from Melbourne’s Courtney Barnett is a fine example of Neil Gaiman’s “when life gets tough… make good art” approach in action. In her case, misfortune struck as an anaphylaxis-induced panic attack while gardening, followed by an ambulance ride to the hospital where doctors treated her with a shot of adrenaline. “Avant Gardener” finds what must have been a terrifying event told through guileless, psych-rock-tinted glasses. There’s a hint of Dylan, Sonic Youth and other influences, but Barnett’s sense of melody, the track’s woozy palette, and a clever lyrical wit are all her own. Barnett’s upcoming debut, The Double EP: A Sea Of Split Peas, is up for pre-order here. Stream the excellent single above.
