You may recognize Zooey Deschanel from her roles in Weeds or movies like Almost Famous or Elf but here’s betting even some of his fans still wouldn’t recognize M. Ward (despite releasing several brilliant albums and working with the likes of Bright Eyes, Jenny Lewis and Cat Power). The two have chosen an appropriately indistinguishable name, She & Him, for their musical collaboration, with the resulting record simply titled Volume One.
M. Ward co-produced Jenny Lewis’ first solo album, a similarly lo-fi affair, but the two actress-turned-singer/songwriters are decidedly different in terms of singing or writing styles. Deschanel wrote the majority of the tracks, with the exception of 3 covers, with Ward as producer (also on guitar and background vocals). The band cites Nina Simone, Linda Ronstadt and the Carter Family as musical references, all influences easily heard on these songs.
It’s the kind of record that’s strength speaks for itself, so download it here. It will officially be released 3/18.