Joan Shelley Announces New Album Real Warmth Set for September Release
Joan Shelley, the acclaimed Kentucky songwriter, is preparing to release her new album, Real Warmth, on September 19 via No Quarter Records. This album serves as a follow-up to 2022’s The Spur, featuring contributions from prominent artists including Tamara Lindeman of the Weather Station, Doug Paisley, Nathan Salsburg, and others.
Production and Collaborators
Real Warmth is produced by Ben Whiteley, who emphasized the urgency and spontaneity during the album’s recording process. In a press statement, Whiteley noted, “The record really feels like a capture instead of a meticulous construction.” He explained that the goal was to draw upon the rich community of musicians connected to Kentucky, a concept important to Shelley in its creation.
Lead Single and Tracklist
The lead single from the album, titled “Everybody,” has been released for listeners, offering a preview of the sound and themes that Shelley explores in the new work.
The album tracklist includes:
- Here in the High and Low
- On the Gold and Silver
- Field Guide to the Wild Life
- Wooden Boat
- For When You Can’t Sleep
- Everybody
- New Anthem
- Heaven Knows
- Ever Entwine
- Give It Up, It’s Too Much
- The Orchard
- Who Do You Want Checking in On You
- The Hum
Fans can listen to "Everybody" through the following link: Listen Here.
Upcoming Tour
In conjunction with the album release, Shelley is embarking on a brief tour in North America this autumn, starting on October 16 in Toronto, Ontario at the Monarch Tavern. She will travel across various cities, concluding on November 2 at the Whirling Tiger in Louisville, Kentucky. The tour is expected to resonate with audiences as she showcases her new material live.
Tour Dates:
- October 16: Toronto, Ontario – Monarch Tavern
- October 18: Northampton, MA – The Parlor Room
- October 19: Keene, NH – Nova Arts
- October 21: Boston, MA – Passim
- October 22: Brooklyn, NY – Public Records
- October 23: Philadelphia, PA – Harmonie Hall
- November 2: Chicago, IL – Constellation
- November 23: Louisville, KY – The Whirling Tiger
Significance of the Release
The announcement of Real Warmth not only adds to Shelley’s already impressive discography but also reflects a broader trend in the music industry where artists leverage deep community ties to produce authentic soundscapes. With its focus on collaboration and capturing real moments, this album is poised to connect with listeners on multiple levels, particularly at a time when music is increasingly being seen as a form of cultural commentary against vibrant social and political backdrops.
Shelley’s artistic choices emphasize the importance of locality and community, suggesting that her music is not merely for entertainment but also serves as a means of reflection and connection during tumultuous times. As her tour approaches, the anticipation surrounding Real Warmth may well lead to a rejuvenated appreciation for the artistry involved in songwriting and music creation.
