This NFJFN features two North Carolina bands that have been dominating my life lately. Not that I mind.

Megafaun

Here’s what I know. Megafaun is a North Carolina band that used to be a Wisconsin band named Mount Vernon, started by a guy named Justin Vernon – who you may know as Bon Iver. The Vernon of Mount Vernon moved back to WI, while the rest of the band hung back and formed Megafaun. I didn’t do any fact checking, so if this isn’t entirely correct sue me. Whatever the case may be, Megafaun has put out some good records, but their new one Gather, Form & Fly is the first really great one, as far as I can tell. The song below is an early standout that I can’t can’t stop listening. Reminds me of first listening to Neil Young on vinyl – warm and soothing.

Download/Listen: The Fade

The Avett Brothers

Here’s what I know. The Avett Brothers is one of those bands that doesn’t come along very often.With their latest release I And Love And You (produced by Rick Rubin) they’re definitely being introduced to the world, but they’ve been putting out stellar records for the last several years, and one of the better live bands you’ll see. So I guess what I’m saying is, they deserve all the new attention their getting, but they don’t need it. I’m not even sure if this band should qualify as a “Not Forever, Just For Now” band, as they’re already on their way toward “forever” status. But I just wanted to share.

Download/Listen: I And Love And You