In a profound chapter of artistic renewal, Alan Sparhawk, the revered leader of the seminal slowcore band Low, has embarked on a poignant musical journey following the devastating loss of his wife and bandmate, Mimi Parker. This new endeavor sees him collaborating with fellow Minnesotans, the acclaimed bluegrass group Trampled By Turtles, crafting an album that stands as a testament to healing and the transformative power of connection through music.
The bond between Sparhawk and Trampled By Turtles runs deep, rooted in their shared origins in Duluth, Minnesota. Low had previously supported Trampled By Turtles early in their career, fostering a lasting camaraderie. While the idea of a studio collaboration between the slowcore innovator and the bluegrass merchants might have seemed unconventional, the resulting album, “With Trampled By Turtles,” dispels any doubt, revealing a natural synergy that resonates with emotional authenticity.
This collaborative record is a deeply moving experience, often propelling forward with a powerful momentum driven by Sparhawk’s raw, unadorned voice. Songs like “Screaming Song” and “Don’t Take Your Light” emerge from a place of profound grief and loss, serving as stark, honest expressions of an artist grappling with immense sorrow. Sparhawk himself describes some tracks as “the first things that fell out of me in response to loss and grief,” embodying a visceral outpouring of emotion.
Intriguingly, “With Trampled By Turtles” was recorded concurrently with another Sparhawk project, “White Roses, My God,” yet the two albums exist as sonic polar opposites. While “White Roses, My God” delves into expansive electronic soundscapes and heavy vocal modulation, making Sparhawk almost unrecognizable, the collaboration with Trampled By Turtles offers a stripped-down, earthy sound. Here, his voice soars clearly above the bluegrass ensemble’s mostly acoustic string work, creating a unified wall of sound that Sparhawk admires for its “egoless” quality.
A significant aspect of this collaboration was Sparhawk’s personal journey to overcome discomfort with his voice after years of singing alongside Mimi. He candidly admits to feeling “very, very lost and awkward singing,” but recognized the unique opportunity presented by Trampled By Turtles’ gracious invitation. This period necessitated a conscious act of trust, a leap of faith into an unfamiliar vocal landscape, which ultimately proved to be a vital step in his artistic and personal recovery.
Beyond vocal exploration, the project also marked a powerful return to the guitar for Sparhawk, an instrument he considers his “main physical connection to music.” He thrives on artistic diversification, finding clarity and a broader perspective when immersed in new musical contexts. His dedication to daily practice underscores his commitment to the instrument, acknowledging the constant engagement required to maintain his footing in this vital aspect of his creative world.
Sparhawk’s approach to music-making underscores the profound importance of community and connection. The inclusion of his daughter, Hollis, singing on “Not Broken,” highlights the familial essence that has always defined his artistic endeavors, from Low to this current project. He views music as a powerful reminder of the essential role friends play in times of loss, offering an opportunity to share and feel blessed by each other’s presence.
Ultimately, Alan Sparhawk’s latest musical chapter with Trampled By Turtles transcends mere collaboration; it represents a brave act of vulnerability and healing. Through the unvarnished honesty of his voice and the supportive embrace of his musical compatriots, Sparhawk has navigated the depths of grief, demonstrating music’s enduring power to mend, connect, and guide us through life’s most challenging passages.
Leave a Reply