Healing in Harmony: The Transformative Power of Classical Melodies

Music group performing onstage with empty audience seats. Photo: Manuel Nägeli on Unsplash.

When an artist records a classical album, especially when it’s not their first calling, there’s often a deeper story within the music itself. Mina Tulchinsky’s 2016 album of classical arias and original, classical-inspired compositions was an exploration of exactly this—healing through music. For her, the album became both a refuge and a connection to something timeless, which, despite the years since its release, resonates with listeners anew.

Music has long been a source of comfort and healing for people across the world. Scientists and therapists alike point to music’s power to reduce stress, soothe anxiety, and even aid in physical recovery. Rhythm, melody, and harmony have the unique ability to engage the brain and body simultaneously, creating an immersive experience that transports listeners away from their worries. This transformative quality goes beyond entertainment; it offers a form of solace and renewal, connecting individuals to something larger than themselves. It’s this intangible yet profound effect that makes music—especially the emotionally rich genre of classical—a powerful tool in the journey toward healing.

While classical music can feel out of reach to some, Tulchinsky’s album bridges that divide. Her personal experience, expressed through a mix of well-loved arias and fresh, relatable melodies, offers something that even those unversed in classical music can appreciate. Much like Agarita’s mobile concerts that bring Mozart or Bach to the community, Tulchinsky’s album seeks to bring the warmth of classical music into daily life. It’s this accessibility—classical sounds interpreted through a modern, approachable lens—that makes her album unique. She’s given listeners a glimpse of what healing can sound like, stripped of the formality and focused on the resonance of the experience.

The music, much like healing, is deeply personal yet universally accessible. By recording something so classical in style but infused with personal emotions, Tulchinsky has crafted a work that invites listeners from all walks of life. Classical music, for many, can carry a sense of ceremony, a distance. But this album, by a divorcee finding her way forward, takes that form and molds it into something that feels human and grounded. It’s music that meets listeners where they are, extending the sense that healing isn’t reserved for concert halls or grand stages but is accessible in one’s own space, at one’s own pace.

Photo: Facebook – Mina Joy Music

As listeners follow her journey—through heartbreak, resilience, and a renewed appreciation of self—they find a kindred spirit in music. Tulchinsky’s recent releases on Spotify bring these elements into even sharper focus, continuing to invite a wider audience into the classical fold without the need for pretension or exclusivity. Instead, her work represents healing that anyone can access, a simple melody away.

For anyone curious about classical music but hesitant to dive into a genre so steeped in tradition, Tulchinsky’s album is a reminder that music, in its essence, is for everyone. In opening this space for healing through her art, she’s reminded us all of music’s quiet, powerful ability to soothe and unite. Whether one finds solace by listening to her music or feels inspired to sing, play, or explore their own musical journey, her album stands as a testament to how music’s healing reach can be both deeply personal and universal. Through her melodies, Tulchinsky shows us that healing can start with just a single note, inviting us to embrace music’s transformative power in whatever way feels most meaningful.

Collaborative Post

Transformative Sounds: The Impact of trauma ray’s Chameleon on Listeners

trauma ray’s Chameleon will be released on October 25, 2024. Photo: Will McCarthy, used with permission.

The powerful new single Bardo from the North Texas rock band trauma ray is eerie, deviating between noisy one string bends and surging headbang, mapping a middle ground between Unwound and nu-metal. (another/side, 2024)

“Bardo is the in-between. Whether that’s life or death, or a purgatory. It’s about being stuck in between one phase and the next. When you can feel the past fading and yet you can’t quite see the path to the future either.” – Jonathan Perez, trauma ray guitarist

The Texas five is set to release their highly anticipated debut album Chameleon on October 25 via Dais Records which has already seen early acclaim from The FADER, Stereogum, Consequence (Heavy Song of the Week), Brooklyn Vegan, New Noise and more. Since first making waves with a S/T EP in 2018, trauma ray has been honing their live set across increasingly adventurous American tours – stacking amps and turning heads show by show, justly earning them a massive following in no time. The band’s three guitar attack is a force to behold, alternately surging, savage and spectral, drenched in precision distortion. 

The core songwriting duo of Uriel Avila and Jonathan Perez has expanded and refined the project’s vision and craft, culminating throughout Chameleon. Rounded out by bassist Darren Baun, drummer Nicholas Bobotas, and guitarist Coleman Pruitt, the album both synthesizes and transcends its influences, a stormy fusion of downer hooks, apocalyptic beauty, and bulldozer riffs.

The name trauma ray was inspired by the German word for ‘daydream, or ‘dream state,’ in classic shoegaze fashion. Avila’s background in a devout Pentecostal community gives his lyrics about guilt, purgatory, and passing to the other side to an emotional authenticity that cuts through the music’s majestic volume.

Chameleon is a masterpiece of craft, balance, melody, lyricism, and gravity, flexing a fresh vision of loud-quiet-loud architectures and the vertigo depths of blasted harmonics. From Slowdive to Deftones to Hum and beyond, trauma ray absorb and expand on their influences into a rare and dedicated alchemy. trauma ray’s cinematic tempest is a gathering storm only just taking flight.

Just after a U.K. run, trauma ray will perform across their home state including dates at Levitation and with Panchiko. Other highlights include two release shows: one headlining The Roxy in LA and San Diego’s Voodoo Room. See all dates below and grab tickets here.

Trauma Ray Live Dates:
Oct 26: Birmingham, UK – XOYO *
Oct 27: Manchester, UK – B.E.C. Arena (Outbreak Autumn)
Oct 28: London, UK – New Cross
Oct 31: Rubber Gloves – Denton, TX
Nov 01: Levitation – Austin, TX
Nov 03: Oklahoma City, OK – Tower Theatre ~
Nov 04: Little Rock, AR – EJ’s
Nov 06: Kansas City, MO – The Truman ~
Nov 07: Chicago, IL – Sleeping Village #
Nov 08: Indianapolis, IN – Deluxe ~
Nov 09: Grand Rapids, MI – Elevation ~
Nov 10: Pittsburgh, PA – Roxian Theatre ~
Nov 12: Philadelphia, PA – Union Transfer ~
Nov 13: Boston, MA – 4th Wall
Nov 14: New Haven, CT – Toad’s Place
Nov 15: New York, NY – TV Eye #
Nov 16: Washington, D.C. – Comet Ping Pong !
Nov 17: Richmond, VA – Cobra Cabana !
Nov 18: Raleigh, NC – Kings !
Nov 19: Atlanta, GA – Altar #
Nov 20: Birmingham, AL – Saturn #
Nov 21: New Orleans, LA – Siberia #
Nov 22: Houston, TX – TBD #
Nov 23: San Antonio, TX – Paper Tiger #
Nov 29: Los Angeles – The Roxy (Record Release) ^
Nov 30: San Diego – Voodoo Room (Record Release) $

* w/ Citizen
~ w/ Panchiko
# w/ Leaving Time
! w/ Leaving Time and Full Body
^ w/ Toner, Lvster, Slumped
$ w/ Toner, Slumped, Sparkler

Chameleon tracklist:

1 – Ember
2 – Torn
3 – Chameleon
4 – Bardo
5 – Bishop
6 – Elegy
7 – Drift
8 – Breath
9 – Spectre
10 – Flare
11 – ISO
12 – U.S.D.D.O.S.

Behind the Lyrics: The Stories Within robbietheused’s New Album

robbietheused announces debut self titled pop LP. Photo: Ryan Muirhead, used with permission.

New York, New York – The Used’s frontman Bert McCracken has announced his debut full length album under his solo project, robbietheused, out October 25 via Big Noise Records. Following the success of his latest singles, Terrible and The Feels, the LP dips its toes into uncharted territory for Bert, as the famously known Alternative Rock star with a lifelong passion for pop music. (Big Picture Media, 2024)

In general, robbietheused always finds solace in writing and recording new music because this creativity has a positive impact on his mental health. Having these songs was particularly vital, as he started writing during the COVID-19 pandemic when he was unable to travel from his home in Australia. 

Producer John Feldmann came onboard to work on robbietheused material. Given that the two men have known and collaborated with each other for decades, it wasn’t a stretch for them to focus on pop-oriented songs. In fact, this camaraderie led to adventurous sound explorations, such as incorporating heavy bass undertones and effects and vocoders. 

“Any feeling is valid—and to be able to put it to song is incredible. And there’s so much room in this world for positivity. I want this music to show that there’s room for love. There’s room for growth. There’s room for redemption. There’s so many good people—and so many good things happening.” – robbietheused

Fans can listen to robbie’s latest single, Terrible and pre-save the robbietheused album.

robbietheused will be taking these new tracks on the road, on his highly anticipated, limited 5 stop fall tour kicking off on October 30 in Anaheim, CA,followed by shows in major cities: Los Angeles, Philadelphia and New York City. The tour will wrap up on November 5 in Asbury Park, NJ.

Tickets are now available online for all robbietheused fall tour dates.

2024 Fall Tour Dates
October 30 – Anaheim, CA – House of Blues Anaheim – The Parish
October 31 – Los Angeles, CA – Echoplex
November 3 – Philadelphia, PA – Brooklyn Bowl
November 4 – New York, NY – Gramercy Theatre
November 6 – Asbury, NJ – House of Independents

robbietheused tracklist:

Terrible

Always Gonna Be Like This

Gladiator

The Middle

Just A Little Bit

Wake Up Call

In My Dreams

Blame You

Push Me (ft. Sierra Deaton)

Gold In The Ashes

Something You Can Count On

The Feels

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311’s Full Bloom: A Look Into the Band’s Latest Masterpiece

311 announces their highly anticipated album Full Bloom. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

New York, NY – The platinum certified rock band 311 is back with the announcement of their highly anticipated 14th studio album, Full Bloom, out October 25. In celebration, the band has released their new track and visualizer for Need Somebody,” out now. The track speaks to avoiding isolation and staying connected with the people that love you. (Big Hassle Media, 2024)

With more than 10 million records sold in just the United States alone, 311 has never been hotter. Having just wrapped a successful headlining US run of their “Unity Tour,” one of the most successful tours of the their 34 year history, they are known to emphasize the importance of community through the lens of communication and connection. 

Full Bloom is 311’s first full length project in 5 years following their album Voyager in 2019. Their first single off the album, “You’re Gonna Get It” is the band’s highest charting song in 13 years, breaking into the top 15 at Alternative Radio. The introspective track reflecting upon the realization that all actions have consequences, even if they aren’t immediate, has over 1M streams since its release this summer. Fans can now pre-save Full Bloom

“We hope fans can take from this album 311’s message of positivity and unity. In today’s world it’s so easy to become alienated by the pressures of everyday life. Whether it’s social media, stress at work, an illness, the list goes on.” The band shares with us, “It’s so important to stay open with your loved ones and community so we can all thrive in full bloom” shares the band. 

Music has always been a unifying force, and through their lyrics and melodies, the band seeks to remind everyone that we are never truly alone. Whether it’s reaching out to a friend, a family member, or even a stranger, the act of communication can bridge gaps and heal wounds. In their eyes, having someone to talk to is one of the most essential forms of support, and it’s the foundation upon which unity is built. It’s in those conversations where understanding, empathy, and connection grow.

311 was formed in 1990 in Omaha, Nebraska, featuring Nick Hexum (vocals/guitar), Chad Sexton (drums), Tim Mahoney (guitar), SA Martinez (vocals/dj), and P-Nut (bass). They mix rock, rap, reggae and funk into their own unique, hybrid sound – and 33 years later, the band is still regarded as one of the most entertaining and dynamic live bands in the U.S. 

As veterans of over 2,000 shows across 27 countries, 311 is one of the longest running original lineups in rock, alongside iconic acts like U2 and Radiohead. 311’s celebrated live shows and touring schedule have earned them a vast and dedicated following nationwide. The band has released thirteen studio albums, two greatest hits albums, two live albums, three DVD’s and a boxed-set, and have sold over 9 million records in the U.S.

Ten albums have reached the Top 10 on Billboard’s Top 200 Sales Chart – and nine of their singles have reached the Top 10 on Billboard’s Alternative Radio Chart – including three #1 singles: “Down,” “Love Song,” and “Don’t Tread On Me” – along with ”Amber,” “All Mixed Up,” “Come Original,” “Creatures For Awhile,” “Hey You,” and “Sunset in J.

Full Bloom tracklist:

You’re Gonna Get It

Need Somebody

Full Bloom

Friend

Mountain Top

New Heights

Days Go By

Persimmon

All You’ve Seen

Braver

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Teddy and the Rough Riders: A New Chapter with Down Home

Fast Livin’ is the latest single from Teddy and the Rough Riders’ forthcoming new album Down Home, due out October 11, 2024. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Nashville, TN – The speed and momentum Teddy and the Rough Riders are gathering throughout Nashville’s underground country music scene is embodied in their latest single, Fast Livin.’ Music City natives, Jack Quiggins and Ryan Jennings, have been going non-stop since the late 2010s, collaborating with everyone from Margo Price to Emily Nenni to Sean Thompson’s Weird Ears, quickly becoming your favorite country band’s favorite country band. With Fast Livin,’ Teddy and the Rough Riders paints a small picture of their upbringing, leaving town to hit the road, and all of the nefarious hijinks that come along with it. But it’s not completely autobiographical. (IV PR, 2024)

Brooklyn Vegan recently premiered the track. Fans can stream or purchase Fast Livin’ check out Teddy and The Rough Riders’ previously released singles, Catfish Summer and Hippies, and pre-order or pre-save Down Home ahead of its October 11 release via Appalachia Record Co. right here

On their new album Down Home, the songwriting duo of Jack Quiggins and Ryan Jennings double down on all the elements that garnered praise for their previous, eponymous album produced by Margo Price. Holler Country succinctly sums them up: “Teddy and the Rough Riders are pulling apart the lost threads of country rock and weaving them back together with their own alternative take on the form.” As native Nashvillians, the pair came up through Music City’s DIY rock scene explosion of the late 00s into 2010s, eventually embracing the traditional country roots of their home city. At just 33 minutes, Down Home moves at a fast clip, with a variety of blazing rippers, traditional sounds, and alt-country styles inviting repeat listens.

Down Home tracklist:
Bullet
Fast Livin’
Catfish Summer
Trouble Sleeping
Golden Light
Edna’s Song
Mountain Girl
Hippies
Love After Life
Bird Has Flown
Gettin’ High

The band has recently been named “Best Honky Tonk Group” by Austin TX’s Ameripolitan Awards for 2024. They toured North America, the EU, and the UK through the summer backing and opening for Emily Nenni and will embark on their own North American tour in October.

Catch Teddy and the Rough Riders on tour:
October 3 – Las Vegas, NV – Backstage Bar
October 4 – Reno, NV – Off Beat
October 5 – Folsom, CA – Folsom Hotel
October 6 – Los Angeles, CA – Permanent Records Roadhouse
October 7 – Costa Mesa, CA – The Wayfarer
October 8 – Tempe, AZ – Yucca Tap Room
October 10 – Abilene, TX – Lone Star Dry Goods
October 11 – San Antonio, TX – Lonesome Rose
October 12 – Austin, TX – White Horse
October 13 – Austin, TX – ACL Fest
October 17 – Birmingham, AL – Woodlawn Theatre
October 18 – Nashville, TN – Soft Junk
October 19 – Thomaston, GA – Mule Days

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Honoring Freddy Fender: An Exhibit Celebrating a Cultural Icon’s Enduring Legacy

Freddy Fender: Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Baldemar Huerta is currently in view until November 9 at the San Benito Cultural Heritage Museum.

Freddy Fender was a celebrated American singer and songwriter known for his unique blend of country, rock, and Tejano music. Born on June 4, 1937 in San Benito, Texas, he gained fame in the 1970s with hits like “Before the Next Teardrop Falls” and “Wasted Days and Wasted Nights.” Fender’s soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics resonated with a diverse audience, bridging cultural gaps. He was a key figure in the Chicano music movement, showcasing the rich heritage of Mexican-American artists. Despite personal struggles, his legacy endures, influencing generations of musicians and leaving an indelible mark on American music.

The San Benito Cultural Heritage Museum is proud to present the first ever Freddy Fender Estate-sanctioned exhibit that spotlights musical trailblazer Freddy Fender, the stage name of Mexican American icon Baldemar Huerta, and coincides with the 50th anniversary of the recording of the album “Before The Next Teardrop Falls.” (San Benito Cultural Heritage Museum, 2024)

Freddy Fender: Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Baldemar Huerta will be on exhibit from now until November 9, 2024. It is part of the ongoing collaboration between Veronique Medrano, a local archivist and musician, and the San Benito Department of Cultural Arts.

The opening reception took place on Thursday September 26 and began with speeches from co-curators Veronique Medrano and Aleida Garcia, San Benito Mayor Ricardo “Rick” Guerra, and City Manager Fred Sandoval. At the well-attended event, guests were able to enjoy DJ-provided music and light snacks while browsing the exhibit hall and mingling with fellow fans of Freddy Fender and community members alike. It’s always enlightening to learn new and/or lesser known facts about musicians and whether you’re a fan or not, Fender’s influence in music is undeniable. This exhibit is the first of its kind in San Benito and the Rio Grande Valley, so if you’re a music fan, a fan of Freddy Fender, or music history in general, I encourage you to stop by see it for yourself. The pictures and displays bring his story to life.

The exhibition walks visitors through the history of San Benito’s hometown hero and Fender’s impact on pop, Tejano, country, and rock music worldwide. Guests to the museum can view this once in a lifetime collection of objects and memorabilia as well as a selection of private collection artifacts including a commemorative plaque of Fender’s star in the Hollywood Walk of Fame, wardrobe worn during the filming of videos and movies, like The Milagro Beanfield War, and concert posters.

Some of the categories in the exhibit include:

“Wasted Days and Wasted Nights”
Fame Interrupted
Fender Beyond Music
Los Supergroups

Guided tours and in-person access are available. Virtual programming, such as video presentations, interviews, and virtual tours will be available through the museum’s social media platforms.

Museum hours:
Monday through Thursday
10a.m. – 4p.m.
Fridays
10a.m. – 1p.m.

San Benito Cultural Heritage Museum
250 East Heywood
San Benito, TX 78586

Elevate Your Space: How 6Stringers Transforms Guitar Passion into Custom Wall Art

Musicians and music lovers are sure to enjoy custom wall art from 6Stringers. Photo: 6Stringers, used with permission.

Personalized wall art is a unique gift idea. For guitar lovers, it adds a distinctive touch to any space, celebrating their passion for music. Custom pieces can feature favorite song lyrics, iconic guitar silhouettes, or even artwork of cherished instruments. These creations transform walls into a vibrant tribute to one’s musical journey, making them perfect for homes, studios, or practice spaces. Whether it’s a framed print, canvas, or metal sign, personalized art captures the essence of a guitarist’s identity. These thoughtful decorations not only enhance the aesthetic of a room but also serve as daily inspiration, reminding them of their love for music and creativity.

With the holiday shopping season among us, it’s time to start thinking about gift ideas. If someone you know loves guitars and would appreciate a personalized gift, consider 6Stringers. Or treat yourself and show off your guitar passion with customized wall art. (6Stringers, 2024)

6Stringers creates world class personalized wall art for guitar lovers. Their custom wall art includes:

  • Canvas Wall Art – Claim your spot as the headliner of your Guitar Room with a beautifully customized guitar canvas.
  • Metal Wall Art – Create your personalized Metal Sign to showcase in your Guitar Room.

Featured Products:

Why you should buy customized gifts from 6Stringers:

  • Made in the U.S.A. – their products are crafted in the U.S.A with high-quality materials. Each product is customized with meticulous attention to detail to inspire and enhance your guitar space.
  • Preview & Edits – your satisfaction is their top priority. Your masterpiece will begin production after you approve the preview proof email.
  • Fast & Reliable Shipping – they use reliable and trusted shipping partners (UPS, USPS, and FedEx) to deliver your orders quickly and safely. You’ll receive a tracking number by email once your package ships.

So what are you waiting for? Order your very own wall art from 6Stringers for your music room, jam room, or wherever else you ROCK OUT, or surprise your loved one with their very own wall art. They’ll love you for it.

Canvas wall art. Photo: 6Stringers, used with permission.

Empire State Unveiled: What to Expect from Greg Copeland’s Latest EP

Empire State is available now. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Los Angeles – Singer-songwriter Greg Copeland is a Southern California native whose depth of feeling for music—and natural ability to conjure it up with spare, graceful melodies and lyrics that are plain spoken poetry—has been in inverse proportion to his body of work. His comfortable, yet candid, way with words make his new EP a welcome addition to his catalog of music. He has a natural ability to conjure up spare, graceful melodies and evocative lyrics that are plain spoken poetry. His genuine sentiments and strength of character, together with the intricate nuances of these musical compositions, create a vividly illustrative sound that allows him to shed light on difficult circumstances. His latest EP, Empire State was released on September 6, 2024. (Dreamspider Publicity, 2024)

The collection of songs exudes a sense of urgency and presence. Empire State takes place right this minute. Copeland’s characters and narratives “volunteer” themselves to be bared to the world through song and often recur throughout his catalog of music. Like a sentinel keeping watch, his songs are a report back to the listener, as inspiration for writing seems to bubble up from within. Copeland says, “When the odometer clicked over to 2000, I somehow started writing again. Don’t know why, just had to, and the three subsequent recordings are what matter to me most at this point.”

After a 26 year hiatus since his 1982 debut Revenge Will Come, Copeland went back into the studio and reemerged with his second release, Diana and James (Released 2008 on Browne’s label Inside Recordings). This triggered new writing towards a collection of songs that led to his third album, The Tango Bar, in 2020.

Empire State is out now on Copeland’s own independent label, Franklin & Highland Recordings, and internationally with Hemifrån/Paraply Records (Non-U.S. Territories).

Tyler Chester produced both Empire State and The Tango Bar and feature longtime comrade and producer of Copeland’s 2008 release Greg Leisz on pedal steel and mandocello, among other instruments. Chester, a multiple Grammy-nominated producer, session musician, multi-instrumentalist, and composer, also plays keys throughout Empire State as well as bass on the first track. Returning from previous albums to join them are longtime Jackson Browne sideman Val McCallum on electric and rubber bridge slide guitar; Jay Bellerose on drums and percussion; and Jennifer Condos on bass. Sara Watkins joins on fiddle for a track.

Empire State tracklist:
1. Boon Time
2. We the Gathered
3. 4:59:59
4. Coyotes
5. Empire State

Greg Copeland. Photo: Chris Schmitt, used with permission.

Rooted in Melody: Laurie Lewis’ New Album Trees

Laurie Lewis will receive a 2024 IBMA Distinguished Achievement Award and is on tour with new album. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

BERKELEY, Calif. — With five decades of music-making to her credit, multi-GRAMMY nominee Laurie Lewis has emerged as both a successor and contemporary of the many greats in bluegrass, old-time, and folk music. Unafraid to venture beyond established boundaries, she has carved out her place as a uniquely singular vocalist, songwriter, instrumentalist, and frontwoman in genres revered for their adherence to tradition, authenticity, and the canon of the forebearers. (Dreamspider Publicity, 2024)

The International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) has announced that Lewis will receive a 2024 Distinguished Achievement Award at the IBMA Bluegrass Music Awards taking place Thursday, September 26, at the Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts in Raleigh, North Carolina.

A two-time IBMA Female Vocalist of the Year, she also won the coveted Song of the Year award for her rendition of the now-standard ‘Who Will Watch the Home Place?’ She has sung and recorded with Linda Ronstadt (“Pretty Bird”), and set poems by Wendell Berry to music—at his request (“Burley Coulter’s Song for Kate Helen Branch”). She’s influenced and inspired folks like guitarist phenom Molly Tuttle—one example of an entire generation of pickers and singers who call her a mentor. Ultimately, Lewis occupies a unique, superlative niche in American roots music that is all her own.

Lewis released her 24th album, TREES, on May 31 on her own label, Spruce and Maple Music. With it, she presents a profound and multifaceted perspective with life, nature, loss, and grief. While deeply reflective, this set includes danceable music that drips with community and never feels burdened by its subject matter or apparent solitude. These songs—seven originals and a handful of covers—aren’t too concerned with genre, especially given that bluegrass and old-time tend to spout from Lewis like a bubbling mountain spring, in so many distinct manifestations. 

Her band includes Lewis on guitar and lead vocals throughout (along with fiddle on one track), Hasee Ciaccio on bass, Brandon Godman on fiddle, Patrick Sauber on banjo, and George Guthrie on guitar and banjo. Special guests on the album include Andrew Marlin on mandolin, Sam Reider on accordion, and Nina Gerber on guitar.

Trees tracklist:
1. Just a Little Ways Down the Road
2. Enough
3. Texas Wind
4. Why’d You Have To Break My Heart
5. Quaking Aspen
6. Trees
7. Long Gone
8. Hound Dog Blues
9. The Banks are Covered in Blue
10. Down on the Levee
11. The Day is Mine
12. Rock The Pain Away

Laurie Lewis Tour Dates:
9/17-20 – Bluegrass on Whitewater – Rogue River, OR
9/22 – FreshGrass Festival – North Adams, MA
9/25-26 – IBMA Conference – Raleigh, NC
9/27 – IBMA WOB Festival – Raleigh NC
10/5 – Hardly Strictly Bluegrass – San Francisco, CA
11/2 – McCloud River Mountain Music – McCloud, CA
11/8 – The Old Steeple – Ferndale, CA
11/9 – Soper Reese Theatre – Lakeville, CA
11/30 – Freight & Salvage – Berkeley, CA

Laurie Lewis. Photo: Irene Young, used with permission.

Some Place to Rest Easy: The Stories and Inspirations of Bob Sumner’s New Album

Bob Sumner wrangles real-life subject matter with a good-time country sound in new album. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Vancouver, BC – Singer-songwriter Bob Sumner cites the musically progressive sensibilities of his heroes when talking about the spirit of his new album, Some Place to Rest Easy, out now via Fluff & Gravy (worldwide) and North Country Collective (Canada). “They were always creating something new, something different,” he says of idols like George Jones, Willie Nelson, and Waylon Jennings. With that ideology in mind, Sumner set about creating an album that takes as much inspiration from the audio production of Randy Travis as it does the lyrical soul of Big Thief’s Adrianne Lenker—a melding of eras, sounds, concepts, and stylings that’s informed by the past, but never bound by it. (IV-PR, 2024)

With Some Place to Rest Easy, Sumner picks up the tempo compared to his previous releases, balancing the stirring lyrical depth fans have come to expect with a more buoyant, lively feel. “It felt appropriate to give the music itself some joy,” says the man who’s made a career out of tapping into difficult-to-touch-on, real-life stuff in a relatable, palatable manner. In the end, that’s what Sumner’s music has always been about—more than a single sound, influence, instrumental, or clever line. “I always want people to feel something,” Sumner explains. “If I heard that this album helped somebody that was feeling down, even just by feeling some other emotion for a little while, that’s the number one thing for me.”

Fans can now stream or purchase Some Place to Rest Easy. Sumner will take the stage at Nashville’s world-famous Bluebird Cafe on September 15. Tickets and complete tour dates are available online

Some Place to Rest Easy tracklist:
Bridges
Motel Room
Don’t We Though
You Can Stay Here
Forty Years on the Floor
Didn’t We Dream
Turn You Into Stone
Baby I Know
Lonesome Sound
Familiar Feeling
Is It Really Any Wonder

Some Place to Rest Easy In The News:

“A blend of past, present, and future sounds” – American Songwriter

“More than a single sound, influence, instrumental, or theme, the through line in Sumner’s music has always been vulnerability.” – Glide Magazine

“Genuine and weighty songwriting” – Americana Highways

“High class, country leaning Americana.” – Americana UK

“It takes a deft hand to put out a good, sad record…Bob Sumner nails it on Someplace To Rest Easy.” – Twangville