Redefining farewell: “Vaya Con Dios” by Cherokee Red

Cherokee Red: s/t (4/16/13)

Together since 2011, Cherokee Red is an indie-rock five-piece that feels like surfing on a rainy day. With members sharing duties, it’s an egalitarian affair with vocals that bring to mind female-fronted bands of the 1960s and ’70s.

Now, as the group prepares to reissue its self-titled debut, we’re premiering “Vaya Con Dios.” The song feels like the soundtrack to a dream sequence, with wordless vocals, acoustic guitar, and glockenspiel segueing into a hazy duet between vocalists. It’s a relaxing way to spend a few minutes of your day.

From band member Charles Davis: “‘Vaya Con Dios’ — “go with god” — a since-past Spanish farewell, written with regard to one’s inevitable death. Our lives are our surroundings. In our hometown, Wilkes-Barre, PA, the many years of sadness have moved through like glaciers, and we have formed as beautiful mountains on the landscape. With regard, saying ‘goodbye’ is a redefinition of reality, regardless of time, space, or moral compass.”