As advised last week, Athens’ magnificent Manchester Orchestra today released their new, decidely-heavier album Cope.  Last night the band showed up on the Letterman Show and simply let ‘er rip.  Cope with it will ya?  In front, you hear the metallic sturm und drang, but in back you hear a band with talent, touch and ‘telligence.  Storm and drive indeed.  For days.

Hilarious to hear Paul Shaffer exclaim at the end:  “White people party music!”  Well Paul…if you mean heavy music that wails and wallows, but then breaks you down and seizes your heart and your mind–then yes.  Finally, worthy “party” music for evolved people, whatever your persuasion.

Afterwards check out an outstanding raw and unplugged version of Cope by Andy Hull, beginning at 5:53 (after some hi-jinx and hilarity) in the band’s video at bottom.