Brendan Benson returns with a new single "Metarie" from Lapalco — the sleeper hit album of the 2002. Hit? Did I say hit? Damn.

Anyway, the song's a newly reworked version — heavier on the pyschedelic vibe with Beach Boys style harmonising by the fabulous Wellfed Boys and a new bridge written in. This is the third version of the song I've heard so far. And all three are kinda special in their own ways.

The single will be released on April 14 with the following tracklisting: -

CD: Metarie (Fred de Faye Mix) / Alternative to Love / Metarie (Alpha's Dub Mix)
7": Metarie (Fred de Faye Mix) / Metarie (Alpha's Dub Mix)

Video of "Metarie" is available at 56k, 100K, and 300K in windows media format at www.brendan-benson.com. Directed by Nicholas Hill and shot in Detroit, the video features some 80s style green screen effects, with an opening scene that might remind one of "Tribute" by Tenacious D.

Brendan Benson will be touring Europe in March too. Tour dates according to the official website:

17th Munich, Orange House
18th Dresden, Star club
19th Berlin, Magnet
20th Munster, Gleiss 22
22nd Bochum, Matrix
23rd Utrecht, Ekko