M. Ward & Zooey Deschanel

To be featured in the forthcoming Martin Hynes film, The Go-Getter (along with more songs from M. Ward, as well as Elliott Smith, the Black Keys and the Replacements), this alluring duet (a cover originally done by Richard and Linda Thompson) between Merge Records’ M. Ward and indie starlet Zooey Deschanel (who stars in the film, along with Jena Malone and Lou Taylor Pucci) is an unexpected delight for fans of either and especially both. For Ward, it’s simply more proof that his scruffy brand of alt-folk is currently at the top of his scene’s heap. However, for Deschanel, it’s a real breakthrough that confirms everything we assumed about her musical abilities since her supporting role in Elf, when she sang to herself in the shower. Her sultry solo hush on the verses proves she has a voice that could certainly stand out on her own album, while her more enthusiastic turn on the chorus demonstrates she has range that wouldn’t leave her whispering her way through songs. With her upcoming role in the Janis Joplin biopic, Gospel According to Janis, it’s hopeful that she’ll get more of an opportunity to prove herself as a vocalist as much as she does a big time actress.

M. Ward & Zooey Deschanel "When I Get To the Border”

M. Ward & Zooey Deschanel "When I Get To the Border” Downloadable MP3