RIP Jay Bennett

This is a bummer on so many levels, that it's hard to really quantify in any meaningful way. Jay Bennett, a huge part of Wilco for many years, passed away yesterday at his studio in Chicago. You can read the full obituary here, and read Wilco biographer Greg Kot's take here.

Bennett's contributions to Wilco were immense, and his personal level of musicality is just undeniable. Given that Bennett has become more prolific over the last few years, and seemed to be stabilizing personally, this is especially tragic. Our thoughts go out to his friends and family.

While you're having a moment of silence, maybe have it a little less silent and give a listen to this tune - we're sure Jay would have approved.

mp3: Jay Bennett - Like A Photograph

New Jay Bennett Album Gets Rapid Internet Only Release, Free Download

Jay Bennett has been busy. Holed up in his own Pieholden studios, he's apparently recorded two albums worth of material, and now is simply tasked with deciding how and when to release them. Not a bad spot to be in, we suppose.

Well as of today, Bennett has decided to release the first record, entitled Whatever Happened, I Apologize, through the online music site rockproper.com. As to why he released this record first? Apparently, much like a tootsie pop, the world may never know. On his myspace blog, Bennett simply stated:

"I am somewhat at a loss for words as to explain why I arrived at this decision, save to say it's just one of those lonely and private choices one sometimes has to make—in other words, it just felt more like the right album for the time."

Fair enough. As for the record, it is strikingly and surprisingly completely free. You simply go to the rockproper site and download a hefty zip file full of tasty new mp3s. We're thinking this may be a good strategy for Bennett, as there may be a world of Wilco fans out there who are interested enough to listen, but maybe on the fence enough not to drop $12 on a CD.

We just finished our download, but from what we can tell at first listen it's an earnest set of polished, acoustic rock songs. In other words, classic Jay Bennett. Check it out below.

mp3: Jay Bennett - Whatever Happened, I Apologize (full record download)

See What Jay Bennett's Been Up To

If you're a long time Wilco fan, then you're no doubt pretty familiar with Jay Bennett: Bennett served as guitarist and co-writer for the band for a number of years. What's more, he made quite a name for himself as a bit of a tough number in the Wilco biopic I Am Trying To Break Your Heart. Since then, he's recorded a number of albums of mixed quality - frankly, we feel like the guy has talent, but could use a bit of an editor.

That being said, we're always curious to hear what Bennett's up to. This interview with Glide magazine seems a tad self serving, but it is interesting to hear the latest: reviving his studio, having fun online, and (as always) playing music. Bennett has a new digital-only album on the way called At The Perfumed Air, as well as an EP with frequent collaborator Ed Burch. Check it out and see what you think.