(Photo: Graham Tolbert)

Hot off an A-list collab with Taylor Swift on her new album folklore, Bon Iver is back today with an original tune called “AUATC” or “Ate Up All Their Cake.” As if mingling with Taylor wasn’t enough, the band calls up the legendary Bruce Springsteen to join Jenny Lewis, Elsa Jensen, and Jenn Wasner on vocals for the new song.

“AUATC” was co-written by Chippewa Valley native Phil Cook, and it’s what the band is calling “Episode 2” of “Season 5” – which might possibly hint at a new collection of songs. A forthcoming full-length record would mean it’s Bon Iver’s fifth, and each album before it had sort of a loose, seasonal theme, so ...

Either way, the song is great and it comes with a visual featuring dance/movement by Randall Riley, artwork by Eric Timothy Carlson, and – did we mention – um, Bruce Springsteen???

In a statement, the band pointed to five different charities and organizations for fans to contribute to: Minneapolis Sanctuary Movement, Equal Justice Initiative, National Independent Venue Association, 350.org, and the Red Letter Grant (here in Eau Claire!) and said “We are calling attention to the fight against capitalism and our collective participation in its dominant institutions.”

Here’s the statement in full:

Each and every person on earth deserves to live fully with dignity, equity, justice, and joy. Instead, our capitalistic societies have created a world that is most supportive of the wealthy and the elite, and the predatory corporations and policies that drive their disproportionate success. The average person is cast aside and unheard; marginalized communities are further oppressed due to race, economic status, gender, sexual orientation, creed, criminal record, housing stability, education, ability, documentation status, and more. The pandemic further magnifies these grave inequities and this unchecked greed. We must continue the fight to topple capitalism as we know it, and recognize our collective participation in its dominant institutions. Bon Iver acknowledges our own position within and use of capitalistic practices. It is with recognition of our privilege that we are fully committed to using our unique platform to challenge and change capitalism within our industry, and far beyond. We must empower and embrace our vulnerable neighbors. We must fight racism and sexism and classism to build a stronger foundation for the home we all deserve. We must support the leaders and organizations working to change our world for the better. From providing safe and stable housing, to empowering women, to liberating incarcerated people, to celebrating art and music, to fighting climate change, these organizations work tirelessly to foster a world that celebrates our humanity on a local, national, and global level. Please explore, support, and take action.

Bon Iver released “Episode 1” in April with “PDLIF” and released i,i last year.