Thursday, August 6, 2009

Woodstock animals get a little help from their friend


My Morning Jacket frontman Jim James' upcoming solo EP, "Tribute To" (recorded under the clever disguise Yim Yames, is a collection of George Harrison's songs covered by James.

A portion of the proceeds will to donated to the Woodstock Farm Animal Sanctuary.

James (Yames?) recorded the album in 2001 after Harrison's death.

James and sanctuary director Jenny Brown met in their home town of Louisville, Ky., "and Jim was moved by WFAS's mission to rescue, protect and provide a voice for the most exploited and abused beings in the world -- farmed animals," the sanctuary said.

The New York Times recounts their encounter.

The sanctuary reports:

A vegetarian for ethical reasons, Jim thought the idea of this album as fundraiser for WFAS to be a perfect match. "I know this is something that George [Harrison] really believed in," he said, and that "George was all about treating all creatures equally and eating responsibly." With this summer being the 40th anniversary of the original Woodstock concert, it is fitting that a true proponent of peace and love be honored this way.

Visit Jim's website where you can download a free preview song or buy a digital download of the full EP. There's also a limited-edition vinyl version that will include a physical CD as well as a special WFAS t-shirt.

We heartily thank Jim James and his wonderful management team for putting all this together! We couldn't be more proud or thankful! To us, Jim truly rocks in more ways than one.


My Morning Jacket headlined the Mountain Jam festival two years ago. The Freeman profiled My Morning Jacket in 2006 and the Woodstock Farm Animal Sanctuary last year.