Nope, it’s not a cover of The Beach Boys classic, but rather an “anti” anthem from the new album by The Magnetic Fields. That’s right, everyone’s favorite champions of melancholy and self-loathing are back with an album of distorted ditties that will tickle your funny-bone, play Tiddlywinks with soul, and fuel your hatred for ex-lovers and other annoying members of our society.

The song “California Girls,” is one of those cases where the music and the melodies are rather joyous, but the lyrics are hateful and disturbing. The vocal sound recalls that of Mike Love’s…except their ain’t no love to be found here. Lyrical plots of murder are drowned in Jesus and Mary Chain-esque distortion and reverb, which translates into Indie-Rock gold. On repeated listens, one can’t help but think of The Velvet’s anti-flower-power classic, “Who Loves the Sun.” Coming in at exactly 3 minutes, the track is perfect for the holiday season and just one of many great ones to be found on the wonderful album, Distortion.

Distortion is due out on Nonesuch on 1/18. Pre-order your copy now.

The Magnetic Fields – California Girls

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