Kurt Vile

Kurt Vile is a former stoner with a perpetual grin and a severe cackle. So severe, in fact, the first time you hear it, you’ll be convinced he’s putting you on. He isn’t. Chances are you won’t be able to induce the cackle out of him. You’ll get a giggle, maybe, but when (there’s no “if” here) he explodes into a fit of overwhelming joy, draws back his lips, exposes his teeth, looks skyward and lets forth his infectious, guttural guffaw, its source will more often than not be something he said himself. Example: Vile has worked for Philadelphia Brewing Company (formerly Yards) for five years. I ask him what he does there. His answer is straightforward, matter of fact. “I drive a forklift.” And then, “That’s what my song ‘Space Forklift’ is about. No, not really.” Bhwhahahaha. It’s adorable. “Forklift” is the third track from Vile’s new album Constant Hitmaker on DIY stalwart Gulcher Records. Vile’s recorded countless CD-R demos over the years, becoming a home-recording guru in the process, but Hitmaker is his first proper solo release on a label, and it’s impressive. Beautiful, clever, endearin... more...