Bon Iver's 2009 song 'Woods' marks a pivotal moment in the band's evolution, showcasing Justin Vernon's experimentation with autotune. This move, initially surprising to fans of his organic songwriting, became a defining characteristic of Bon Iver's sound. Vernon's use of autotune on 'Woods' was not merely a stylistic choice but a strategic decision to expand his artistic horizons.
The song's title, 'Woods', evokes the natural surroundings of Vernon's Wisconsin forest home, yet it diverges from the acoustic intimacy of his debut, 'For Emma, Forever Ago'. 'Woods' is an a capella track, with Vernon employing autotune to create layered harmonies, a technique that was unconventional for his genre at the time. This use of autotune was met with skepticism, as it was often associated with hip hop and electronic music, and some viewed it as a tool for covering up vocal imperfections.
However, Vernon's approach was nuanced. He used autotune as an artistic enhancement, adding a unique texture to his vocals that couldn't be achieved through traditional recording methods. This technique, as Vernon explained in an interview with NPR, allowed him to experiment with different sounds and expand his artistic expression beyond the confines of a solo act in a cabin. It was a bold move that challenged the boundaries of his music, yet still retained the essence of Bon Iver's signature sound.
The song's impact was significant. Despite the initial shock it caused, 'Woods' became a testament to Vernon's artistic growth and willingness to explore new avenues. It demonstrated that Bon Iver was not just a one-trick pony, but a dynamic project capable of evolving and pushing boundaries. This experimentation with autotune became a defining feature of Bon Iver's sound, influencing their subsequent albums and solidifying their place in the indie music landscape.
In conclusion, 'Woods' serves as a pivotal moment in Bon Iver's journey, showcasing Vernon's artistic courage and innovation. It highlights how a seemingly controversial move can become a beloved and defining element of an artist's identity, shaping their legacy and influencing their future work.
