The New York Times is exclusively featuring the new video for the new Stephen Malkmus and the Jicks song No One Is (As I Are Am) in advance of the release of their new album (“Mirror Traffic”) on Tuesday.

In the Times blurb accompanying the video we learn that Bobbie Gentry’s Ode to Billie Joe inspired the song:

“So if the song in the … video, called “No One Is (As I Are Am),” seems to evoke Bobbie Gentry’s dusty Delta ballad “Ode to Billie Joe,” it’s no coincidence: that’s the tune Mr. Malkmus cited as his sonic inspiration for the track. (Though lyrics like “I cannot even do one sit-up, sit-ups are so bourgeoisie” are purely his invention.)

As for what gave rise to the video itself, that remains as mysterious as the unknown item Billy Joe MacAllister threw off the Tallahatchie Bridge in Ms. Gentry’s song. But we are told that, among the adorable children seen running around at the end of the clip, are Mr. Malkmus’s own offspring. So at least things worked out better for him.”

Check out the video HERE.  We love the song’s laconic vibe and especially when the horns kick in at 1:56.  Beck should stick to producing.