In a world of cookie-cutter pop and algorithm-driven playlists, Singing River stands as a defiant testament to the enduring power of handcrafted American music. With their new album Talkin’ Destination Blues, set to drop on November 8th, the duo of Mikey James and Anthony Kuhn have concocted a sonic brew that’s equal parts nostalgia and innovation, served up with a generous helping of what they playfully dub “northern folk” or “steamboat-pop.”
Imagine, if you will, a jukebox in a dive bar at the crossroads of time. That’s where you’ll find Singing River, spinning yarns and strumming chords that could have been birthed in the 1930s or dreamed up yesterday. It’s a sound that’s as comfortable rubbing shoulders with The Band as it is sharing a drink with Jeff Lynne’s ELO.
Mikey James, the band’s beating heart, is no stranger to the ebbs and flows of the music industry. From his days drumming with Longwave in the early 2000s NYC rock scene to his solo ventures as Mikey Jukebox and Admirers, James has been a musical chameleon, absorbing influences like a sponge. Now, reunited with his teenage bandmate Anthony Kuhn, he’s found the perfect foil for his eclectic vision.
Talkin’ Destination Blues doesn’t just blur the lines between genres; it takes a steamroller to them and paves a new sonic highway. It’s as if the ghosts of American music past decided to throw a party, invited a few future spirits, and Singing River showed up with the booze and a killer playlist. Each track is a time machine, a mood ring, and a history lesson rolled into one, delivered with the kind of authenticity that can’t be faked.
Take “A Hill Worth Climbing,” a song that started life as a hard-charging rocker before evolving into something more nuanced. “I imagined writing it for Emmylou Harris or Roseanne Cash,” James confesses, hinting at the song’s emotional depth. It’s the kind of track that feels like it’s always existed, just waiting to be plucked from the ether by the right set of ears.
Then there’s “Got a New Dance,” a joyous romp that showcases the band’s lighter side. Born from James’ love of Louis Armstrong’s “Heebie Jeebies” and infused with post-pandemic optimism, it’s a summer jam that defies easy categorization. “It’s a little jazz, blues, folk, gospel, beat-pop,” James explains with a grin. “You get what I mean…” And surprisingly, we do.
But it’s “I Keep Running” that truly captures the essence of Singing River. Written during a pivotal moment in James’ life, it’s a song that resonates with the raw emotion of a man taking stock of his journey. “This became a personal staple with me,” James admits. “I played it out live a bunch, and it always got a great response.” One listen, and you’ll understand why – it’s the sound of resilience set to a driving beat.
Recorded primarily at James’ aptly named home studio “Bare Essential,” Talkin’ Destination Blues benefits from a production approach that values authenticity over polish. Inspired by legendary producers and engineers of yesteryear, the album crackles with an immediacy that’s often lacking in today’s over-processed soundscapes.
As Singing River prepares to unleash Talkin’ Destination Blues upon the world, they stand as proud outliers in the Americana scene. Their unique blend of influences, coupled with seasoned musicianship and storytelling prowess, offers a musical feast for those hungry for something real in an increasingly artificial world.
With Talkin’ Destination Blues, Singing River is opening a portal to a world where the ghosts of American music past dance with the spirits of innovation. It’s a place where Tom Petty’s heartland rock mingles with Van Morrison’s mystical folk, all filtered through the singular vision of two musical alchemists.
Mark your calendars for November 8th, folks. Talkin’ Destination Blues is a call to arms for anyone who still believes in the transformative power of three chords and the truth.
RIYL: The Traveling Wilburys, Tom Petty, The Band, The Jayhawks
PREVIOUS PRESS
“Gritty and emotion-filled.” – American Songwriter
“With Anthony Kuhn adding distinctive slide work, James has rediscovered the joy of making music for music’s sake and working with a partner again. Recording and producing the music themselves in their collective home studios, the result is what James likes to call “northern folk.” it’s a reference to his admiration for the likes of Neil Young, Leonard Cohen, Robbie Robertson, and Bob Dylan. And on ‘Everyday Love‘ you may just be able to detect the tiniest hint of the Jayhawks.” – Americana UK
“Former Longwave drummer channels T-Bone Burnett on rustic new project” – Rock and Roll Globe
“Mikey James’ artist path has meandered and wounded through a number of idiosyncratic lives. From developing demos on a 4-track in the early 90s to drumming with indie rock wonders Longwave, James has lived the life of a bonafide troubadour. The ebb and flow of his career has now led him to another high, reunited with an old bandmate in the form of Anthony Kuhn. Together, they’re creating some of the most captivating music that either has ever made.” – For Folk’s Sake