It's Time... Again

It's been seven years since the release of "Tarrant County." Since then, there have been a lot of shows and a lot of new friends. We have lived through a pandemic and wept over the chasm that has grown between us and so many of those we love. We have searched for healing in our communities... and songs have been good medicine. Sometimes, we have searched for new communities... and songs have led our way to new families and tribes. I have become part of a community of storytellers and story-lovers who gather in the Blueridge every September. And I have written more stories to sing. It's time to share them with you.

All of Us

Music, songs, and stories can be magical. They are one of the few ways a crowd of people can share a communal experience in real time. While this is certainly true of live music, many of us can only make records if our tribe lends a hand. Participating in crowdfunding campaigns like this gives all of us a connection to the recorded work far beyond just hearing. It means the record is "yours" as much as it is mine. It means that WE are making art together. All of us. You... and me.

The Record

I plan to hit the studio this summer with Jason Weinheimer at Fellowship Hall Sound (Pony Bradshaw, John Moreland, Hayes Carll, John Fullbright, Shinyribs, and Jesse Aycock). I am working through a stack of songs to choose those that will comprise the new record. The scale of the project will depend on the funds raised here. I have kept the goal the same as the intent is still to make a 10-song album if possible. The difference is that any pledges I receive will result in a new recording, whether it is 1 song, 5 songs, or 10. I'll release the most new music possible with the funds you pledge.

Antlers and Acorns, The Boone Songwriters Festival

I plan to officially release the new record on September 10 at this year's Antlers and Acorns in Boone, North Carolina. I am thrilled to be performing for my 4th year at this amazing festival that will feature 20+ amazing songwriters, including headliners such as Darrell Scott, Mary Gauthier, John Moreland, and more. We will follow up with a second release show later in September in Little Rock, Arkansas.

Thanks!

I want to thank you all before we get rolling for your support over the years and for pushing me to believe I still have more to say. You guys mean the world to me.

BIG Love,

Mark