Neil Pond
Updated on: October 12, 2024 3:35 pm GMT
The Kills, the iconic scuzz-rock duo, are set to release their newest acoustic EP, *Happier Girl Sessions*, this Friday, September 20th. The EP not only features new interpretations of songs from their 2023 album *God Games* but also a refreshing cover of Billie Eilish’s popular track “Happier Than Ever.” Fans can expect a unique blend of the band’s signature sound and Eilish’s emotional depth.
New EP and Billie Eilish Cover
The *Happier Girl Sessions* will predominantly offer non-electric versions of several songs from *God Games*, alongside the much-anticipated cover of “Happier Than Ever.” Here’s a preview of the tracklist:
- 1. Happier Than Ever
- 2. 103 — Non-Electric
- 3. New York — Non-Electric
- 4. Better Days — Non-Electric
- 5. My Girls — Non-Electric
The Kills have shared their cover of Eilish’s track, allowing listeners to experience a bluesy and understated version that highlights Alison Mosshart’s powerful vocals paired with Jamie Hince’s fuzzy guitar riffs. This new take provides fans with a fresh angle on a song that is often considered one of Eilish’s most rock-influenced pieces.
Inspiration Behind the Cover
Mosshart reflects on how the cover was born out of an acoustic session with Sirius XM. “It’s all Sirius XM’s fault,” she remarked playfully. “We were asked to do an acoustic session with them last year and they’d asked for a cover as part of the session. I’d always really dug ‘Happier Than Ever’ and found myself singing it around the house all the time. It seemed like a good choice, since I loved it and loved singing it.”
Following the session, Laurence Bell from Domino Records expressed enthusiasm for their acoustic rendition and encouraged them to create an electric version. The result is their reinterpretation of the song that will appear on their latest EP.
Upcoming Performances
The Kills will also hit the road following the EP’s release. They have announced a series of headlining shows, particularly after their scheduled performances with Queens of the Stone Age were canceled due to frontman Josh Homme’s health issues. Their upcoming concert dates include:
- 09/29 — Bridgeport, CT @ Soundside Music Festival
- 10/01 — Cincinnati, OH @ Andrew J Brady Music Center
- 10/06 — Memphis, TN
- 10/07 — Jackson, MS
- 10/09 — New Orleans, LA
- 10/10 — Florence, AL
This tour will also feature appearances at the Soundside Music Festival in Connecticut and Festival Hipnosis in Mexico.
What to Expect from *Happier Girl Sessions*
Listeners can look forward to an intimate experience with tracks from *God Games*, reimagined for an acoustic format. The Kills have become known for their ability to infuse emotional weight into their performances while maintaining a rough and raw edge. Fans should expect the same authenticity in the *Happier Girl Sessions*.
The EP will be available in both digital and 7-inch vinyl formats, allowing collectors and music enthusiasts to enjoy the music in multiple ways. The combination of acoustic renditions and the Eilish cover demonstrates the duo’s versatility and willingness to explore different musical landscapes.
Conclusion
As The Kills gear up for the release of *Happier Girl Sessions*, they continue to showcase their ability to merge different genres and styles while staying true to their roots. Their cover of Billie Eilish’s hit song further highlights their artistic range and showcases the band’s deep appreciation for contemporary influences in rock music.
Fans who can’t wait to hear the two versions of “Happier Than Ever” and fresh spins on the band’s old favorites should mark their calendars for this Friday when the EP comes out. It’s sure to be another thrilling addition to The Kills’ growing collection of music!
