Madi Diaz featuring Lucy Dacus - "Heavy Metal (UN-unplugged)"

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Photo by Ashley Gellman

"Heavy Metal" might be my favorite of Madi Diaz's songs, and she's released a new version of it from her upcoming UN-unplugged edition of last year's phenomenal Fatal Optimist. The original version is just Diaz and her guitar, and the re-worked version includes drums and Lucy Dacus singing backup vocals and taking on a verse. Even with the added elements, "Heavy Metal (UN-unplugged)" feels more raw and stripped down than the original. The emotions of the song are heightened, and Diaz has added something extra special to an already deeply emotional song. We've long been confounded that Diaz isn't one of the most popular artists of her generation, and this version of "Heavy Metal" only helps prove us correct.

Madi Diaz says of her latest single:

“Doesn’t Lucy Dacus just sound like Frank Sinatra with a velvet cape and gloves on? I could listen to her verse in my ears on repeat. I was so honored when she agreed to add her sparkle to this song. She is just so unbelievably hardcore. And on top of that, the band really shines on this track in every single way. I know we somehow made a longish track even longer but every tone, every note, every little break and shimmer is just so felt and tender. It goes so hard, but oh so sweetly - I almost wish it would play for forever.”

You can listen to "Heavy Metal (UN-unplugged)" below. Fatal Optimist (UN-unplugged) is due out September 4 on ANTI-, and is available for pre-order here. For more on Madi Diaz, check out the artist's website. She'll be playing Prescott Park Arts Festival on August 19.

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