American indie folk act Bon Iver has released "PDLIF," a benefit track in support of medical professionals fighting against the coronavirus pandemic. The title is an acronym for "Please Don't Live In Fear."
The song was recorded in the middle of the quarantine period, with parts passed around digitally between the musicians involved. Bon Iver frontman Justin Vernon co-produced the single with DJ Jim E-Stack, who also played drums and BJ Burton.
"PDLIF" features model and singer-songwriter Kacy Hill and Joseph K. Rainey, Sr. on vocals, Devin Hoffman on bass, Eli Teplin on piano, and Rob Moose on string arrangements and piano. The music, according to a press release, was built around a sample of "Visit Croatia," Alabaster dePlume's 2012 instrumental. The vocal tracks are mixed in a way reminiscent of another Bon Iver album, 2016's "22, A Million."
"It proves that, though apart, we're never alone; the importance of collaboration/ community is as strong as ever," the band's statement said.
All of the song's proceeds are intended for Direct Relief - a nonprofit organization that specializes in mobilizing medical aid for people who need them. Bon Iver noted that the nonprofit coordinates worldwide to deliver essential equipment to the health workers fighting against the global pandemic. The band extended their belief in "amplifying the good, giving back, and rallying around our global community."
The band's latest post on Twitter included the cover art for "PDLIF," by Eric Timothy Carlson. On top of the black and white image sports is the header "BON IVER: SEASON FIVE," followed by "Episode 1 Pilot." Since their last album "i,i," released last August 8, 2019, was their fourth album, it implies that "PDLIF" might be the first track in their upcoming fifth project.
The symbols at the bottom translate to "PLAY IT F**KING LOUD," using wingdings 2 font. The use of these dingbats is reminiscent of the symbols dominating the cover of their third studio album "22, A Million."
"PDLIF" is the latest of the Vernon-led band to help in the fight against the global pandemic. Last March 27, Bon Iver announced that a part of their merch sales would be donated to Wisconsin residents through local nonprofits "Feed My People" and "Chippewa Valley Artist Relief Fund." The Wisconsin initiative of Bon Iver was in partnership with Ambient Inks, a local clothing company and merch outfit that also pledged 100% of their share to the cause.
Bon Iver was founded in 2006 with the debut album lineup, including Vernon, Mike Noyce, Sean Carey, and Matthew McCaughan. Their first album, "For Emma, Forever Ago," was independently released and was followed by their eponymous sophomore album, which earned them two Grammy awards for "Best New Artist" and "Best Alternative Music Album."
Their third album, "22, A Million," debuted right at the second spot of the Billboard 200 and received rave reviews for its sound and lyrics. It also received Grammy nominations in 2017. It was succeeded by "i,i" to critical acclaim, although it was often compared to the preceding "22, A Million."
