Fleet Foxes Deliver Ethereal Tribute with Cover of Elliott Smith's 'Angel in the Snow'

2 hours ago7 min read

Fleet Foxes have unveiled a poignant and ethereal cover of Elliott Smith's 'Angel in the Snow,' recorded for the soundtrack of Michael Showalter's forthcoming holiday film, *Oh. What.Fun. * The track serves as a powerful bridge between two distinct yet spiritually aligned chapters of indie folk, with Robin Pecknold and his bandmates capturing the hushed, vulnerable essence of Smith's original.The source material, a minimalist gem from Smith's posthumous *New Moon* album, is built on little more than layered vocals and a softly picked acoustic guitar—a testament to profound, quiet devotion. Fleet Foxes honor this delicate framework by paring back their typically expansive sound, centering the track on Pecknold's resonant, earnest vocal and subtle acoustic textures, while their trademark, luminous harmonies swell gently in the background like winter sunlight.This is not a reinvention, but a reverent homage that aligns perfectly with the band's own thematic fascinations with nature, introspection, and transcendence. Tackling a song so beloved by Smith's devoted following is a bold artistic statement, one that underscores Pecknold's growth as a songwriter deeply attuned to musical lineage.The cover solidifies Smith's enduring impact on a modern indie landscape that includes artists like Phoebe Bridgers and Mitski. Its placement on a Christmas film soundtrack is an inspired choice, re-contextualizing the song's wintry imagery and melancholic grace as the ideal accompaniment for a moment of solitary reflection during the holiday season. For admirers of both artists, this release is a profound gift—a timeless connection that transcends generations and celebrates a shared emotional language.

#Fleet Foxes

#Elliott Smith

#cover song

#Angel in the Snow

#soundtrack

#featured