Song of the Day: Mark Pickerel & His Praying Hands – Cody’s Dream

photo by Christopher Nelson

Every Monday through Friday, we deliver a different song as part our Song of the Day podcast subscription. This podcast features exclusive KEXP in-studio performances, unreleased songs, and recordings from independent artists that our DJs think you should hear. Today’s featured selection, chosen by Afternoon Show host Kevin Cole, is Cody’s Dream by Mark Pickerel & His Praying Hands from the 2008 album Cody’s Dream on Bloodshot.

When asked about his role as the drummer for the seminal rock band Screaming Trees, Mark Pickerel claims he was a peacemaker. Over several decades in the music industry spanning numerous high-profile projects, Pickerel has used that pacifism to his advantage in moving from behind the kit to the front of the stage. He effortlessly blends confidence and cordialness as the band maneuvers between ’50s and 60′ inspired rock and the darker rockabilly moods akin to the oft-comparative Mark Lanegan and Nick Cave. Cody’s Dream is the 2^nd effort for His Praying Hands. Steve Fisk (Nirvana, Wedding Present) was behind the boards again along with a few additions including cellist Barb Hunter (Afghan Whigs, Twilight Singers) and drummer Michael Musburger (Supersuckers, Fastbacks, Posies). Check out the band’s MySpace page to find out what other projects Pickerel has been dabbling in recently, and enjoy this slide show from the band’s recent appearance in-studio at KEXP: