04/01/2011 Design Sponge, Feature story , 'Pokey LaFarge'

For me, the lines between design and music are constantly blurred. The sounds playing in your home can be as effective as beautiful artwork or great furniture in creating a space that feels like you. While my musical tastes are pretty much all over the map (and I’m always looking for something new that will knock me off my feet), I’ve always had a deep love and appreciation for traditional music that reminds me of what my grandparents and their parents must have listened to. I find myself not only drawn to the scratchy warmth of the recordings but the style of the musicians, as well. So when I saw the newest Tiny Desk Concert on NPR* yesterday with Pokey Lafarge, I stopped dead in my tracks. When AC woke up, I forced him to watch this, hoping he would melt into one giant smile like I did. Pokey Lafarge was recently signed by Jack White’s Third Man Records (is there anything Jack doesn’t do right?) and played this small show in anticipation of his upcoming 78. I was completely smitten with Pokey from the second his mouth opened. I love his style, his voice, his lyrics — the entire package. It was love at first sight & sound. (Bonus points for the fact that he reminds me of Delmar from O Brother, Where Art Thou?) If you are looking for some beautiful, joyful sounds to fill your home this morning, I highly suggest clicking “play” below. I’ve done that at least five times this morning and have loved it more each time. Sadly, the video isn’t embeddable, just the audio, so if you want to watch (which is really part of the experience), you can do that here at NPR. xo, grace

*If you don’t listen to/watch this series on NPR, I highly recommend starting. It’s a wonderful way to see some new and familiar faces in a lovely, intimate setting.