Real Estate Unveils Compilation Album “The Wee Small Hours: B-Sides and Other Detritus 2011-2025”
Real Estate Announces Compilation of Non-Album Gems: "Pink Sky" and a Journey Through Time
In an exciting revelation for fans of indie rock darlings Real Estate, frontman Martin Courtney has officially announced the release of a unique compilation album showcasing a collection of non-album tracks. Titled "Two Part", this compilation promises to be a delightful addition to the band’s already rich catalog. “This is something we’ve talked about doing for a while now,” says Courtney, reflective yet enthused. The title, sourced from the lyrics of an unreleased song recorded during the illustrious Atlas sessions back in 2013, is a nod both to a significant period in their career and to the legacy of Frank Sinatra.
The compilation spans across a decade, with tracks tracing back as far as 2011. Among the gems included are a cover of The Strokes’ “Barely Legal” for a Stereogum Tribute album, as well as the B-sides of their “It’s Real” / “Blue Lebaron” 7”. Other notable covers featured are “Paper Dolls” (The Nerves) from 2014, “Days” (Television) from 2021, and, notably, the recently recorded “Daniel” (Elton John) set for release in 2024. Additionally, fan favorites like “In My Car,” a track from a Record Store Day fanzine flexi-disc from 2012, and several unreleased gems, including “Two Part” and bonus tracks from the Atlas sessions, make this compilation a treasure trove for diehard fans.
To whet appetites for the compilation, Real Estate has unveiled a new track today titled “Pink Sky”. Launching the compilation, this vibrant opener was expertly crafted during a one-day recording session at Tiny Telephone Studios in Oakland. The accompanying music video—masterfully directed by Micah Welner—was filmed in frontman Martin Courtney’s hometown of Beacon, NY, earlier this April, showcasing him clad in whimsical wizard attire that adds a charming touch to the visual narrative.
Reflecting on the creation of “Pink Sky,” Courtney shares, “It was among the batch of songs we brought to Nashville to record for our album Daniel. Somehow it didn’t end up getting recorded because it wasn’t totally finished and just didn’t seem to play well with the others. About 18 months later, when we were in San Francisco for Outside Lands, we recorded this and our cover of Elton John’s ‘Daniel’ in a few hours.” He adds a playful note that an alternate title for the song could be “Mystik Spiral,” a quirky nod to the cult classic animated series Daria.
The compilation’s tracklist features a vibrant mix of nostalgia and reinvention, hinting at Real Estate’s diverse sonic palette:
- Pink Sky
- Exactly Nothing
- Barely Legal
- In My Car
- Two Part, Part Two
- Paper Dolls
- Blue Lebaron
- Days
- The Chancellor
- Recreation
- Daniel
- Two Part
“Two Part” stands as a testament to Real Estate’s evolving artistry and an ode to their fanbase. With melodies that evoke memories and fresh perspectives, this compilation eagerly awaits to be embraced by listeners, as Courtney concludes with genuine hope: “We hope you all love it.”
As anticipation builds, fans are left eagerly awaiting this compilation that promises to bridge the past and present of one of indie rock’s most beloved acts.
