CLAP YOUR HANDS AND SAY YEAH – "HYSTERICAL"

"A lot of the record has to do with trying to step back and take the little things as they are. The idea of getting carried away with little things is something that I was definitely prone to over a certain period of my life and other people I know have been fairly dramatic with things they could just let go." – Alec Ounsworth, Clap Your Hands And Say Yeah

With a moniker that sounded more like a suggestion than a band name, Clap Your Hands And Say Yeah (CYHSY) found acclaim after independently releasing their first, self-titled record back in 2005. Their sound is unmistakable as it follows the slurred and sometimes drone vocals of lead singer Alec Ounsworth. But while Ounsworth's croon may turn away vocal purists, the same warble played the part of pied piper to indie rock fans.

After a brief hiatus spent exploring various side projects, CYHSY is now back with their third record, Hysterical. The time away allowed the record to stem from a more sincere place rather than become a product of an expected release. This time around Ouncworth cites the project as a true collaborative effort as members gleaned inspiration from one another.

For a taste of Hysterical, which is out today via Wichita, check out the video for "Maniac" below.

-The Music Director