Seattle indie rockers Band of Horses have just released the first single off their upcoming third LP, Infinite Arms, ‘Compliments’.

On ‘Compliments’, they don’t stray far from their previous two records, but at the same time there’s a distinct growth and maturity in both Ben Bridwell’s lyrics and his voice. The song is layered with perfect harmonies, from bluesy guitar riffs, to thumping bass lines. A dominating drum beat, meanwhile, is accompanied by Bridwell’s intricately arranged, soaring vocals.

“If there's a God up in the air, someone looking over everyone, at least you've got something to fall back on” sings Bridwell, as his vocal melodies create a vibe half hopeful, half gloomy; yet he delivers it with such passion, it keeps it from sounding pretentious or egotistical.

Accompanying the single is a video clip that features various nature photos morphed together, creating a relaxing and beautiful atmosphere. Multiply the fun by smoking a joint before you watch, and it’ll be the greatest 3 minutes and 26 seconds of your day.

theAUreview may not condone drug use, but I do!

The full album
Infinite Arms
is in stores May 18th.

Single: 8.5/10
Music Video: 8/10

Header photo taken by Larry Heath at SXSW 2010 in Austin, Texas.