North American Hallowe’en Prevention Initiative – Do They Know It’s Hallowe’en?
(Vice)

I’m one of those people well suited to Hallowe’en. It’s a happy time for me, but with certain exceptions (some Ramones, Misfits, the Nightmare Before Christmas soundtrack), I can’t stand the music. Monster Mash? Ugh. They’re Coming To Take Me Away? Probably my least favorite song ever.

So I was pleased to see this single, featuring, well… everyone. Contributors include a score of indie faves, including the Arcade Fire, Beck, Karen O, Smoosh, Feist, Devandra Banhart, Nardwuar, Les Savy Fav, and way way more. It even has a few members you wouldn’t expect, such as Stevo of Sum 41, Elvira and comedian/hipster David Cross.

“Do They Know It’s Hallowe’en” is a 6 minute, epic song, that without all the guest appearances sounds like it could have come from a number of these bands, but overall I think it comes down closer to the Arcade Fire in feel, with theirs and Beck’s vocals standing out the most. Just about everyone gets a singing part at some point, even Cross, and thankfully, the packaging includes a lyric sheet that breaks it all down so you know who’s doing what.

There is a shorter version of the song, as well as two remixes by Disco D and Th’Corn Gangg that are passable to a Basement Jaxx/M.I.A. fan, but really aren’t all that special. Still, at a decent price and knowing its all going to charity (UNICEF), this comes recommended. My only gripes are (a) the AMAZING music video wasn’t included as an enhanced feature, and (b) the douchebags at Vice HQ have been making the rounds trying to pass this off as a subversive slap in the face of Bob Geldof, when really it’s just a cute song. — Goon

SCORE:

Recommended If You Like: Arcade Fire, Beck, The million other bands on here, Charity

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