José González Releases EP, Readies Album

Even while holed up in his home in Sweden working on a second solo album (due in 2007 via Mute in North America), José González manages to get things done. Like, way more things than anybody else accomplishes outside of the home, don't ask me how.

Today (December 12), a digital-only iTunes Live Session EP from José popped up on the iTunes store. The five-track recording features three songs from González's debut, Veneer, as well as B-side "Suggestions" and the previously unreleased (in the States) "Storm".

In addition, the artist recently received something of an indirect Grammy nomination under the category of Best Electronic/Dance Album for Zero 7's The Garden, with which he assisted. As previously reported, González is featured on four tracks, including a Zero 7 cover of his own "Crosses".

And speaking of award nominations, González is currently up for the best video of 2006 through MTV2's "Subterranean". (But who isn't?) Head here to vote.

In addition, González recently participated in a Beatles tribute alongside Razorlight's Johnny Borrell, Queen's Roger Taylor, and Corinne Bailey Rae in celebration of producer George Martin's induction into the UK Music Hall of Fame. The performance will air on VH1 in the U.S. in the near future.

González's side project, Gothenburg trio Junip, will release its Black Refuge EP digitally this month. The EP originally landed last year on the band's own Temeshet label.

A new single from the three-piece is slated for Temeshet in 2007.

Live Session EP tracklist:

01 Lovestain
02 Hints
03 Suggestions
04 Storm
05 Crosses

Stream: José González: Crosses [from the Veneer LP]
Video: Junip: Black Refuge [from the Black Refuge EP]