Listen to Strand of Oaks’ Dark Shores, watch their live covers of Moby and more (playing Union Transfer July 30)

Big congrats to our friend Tim Showalter, who today is releasing the latest Strand of Oaks full-length, Dark Shores. Produced by indie rock luminary John Vanderslice – notable for his work with The Mountain Goats and more – the record forges a middle ground between Oaks’ previous two releases, embracing the mystical, emotional depths of Pope Killdragon while reviving some of the snappy, Americana-inspired stylings of Leave Ruin. We’ll have a full review of the album tomorrow, but you can stream the entire thing here.

Next Monday, Strand of Oaks plays Union Transfer, opening for Tallest Man on Earth. One thing you learn from seeing the band in concert – not only is Showalter a gifted songwriter and storyteller in his own right, he’s a gifted interpreter of songs. Check out some of our favorite Oaks in-concert covers below – we’ve got our fingers crossed that one of them makes it into the Union Transfer setlist.

Moby’s “When It’s Cold I’d Like to Die” – performed at Johnny Brenda’s in November of 2011

Bonnie “Prince” Billy’s “Hard Life” – covered on tour with Joe Pug in May of 2011

Damien Jurado’s “Ohio” – recorded for a HearYa live session in October of 2010

Bruce Springsteen’s “Used Cars” – recorded for a HearYa live session in August of 2009