In an eagerly anticipated return, indie folk stalwarts Iron and Wine, led by Sam Beam, have once again joined forces with Ben Bridwell of Band of Horses, marking a decade since their last collaborative effort. This exciting reunion culminates in a brand new covers EP titled ‘Making Good Time’, promising a fresh take on beloved tracks and rekindling the unique chemistry that fans have cherished for years. The announcement has sent ripples of excitement through the music community, highlighting the enduring appeal of these iconic indie artists.
Leading the charge from this new collection is their captivating rendition of Kendrick Lamar and SZA’s chart-topping hit, “Luther.” This particular song, co-penned by Lamar, SZA, Ink, and Sam Dew, captivated audiences upon its original release, enjoying a remarkable 13 consecutive weeks at Number One on the Billboard Hot 100. Iron and Wine and Ben Bridwell’s interpretation offers a stripped-down, acoustic sensibility to the contemporary R&B masterpiece, showcasing their versatility and deep respect for the source material, making it a compelling acoustic cover.
The duo shared their enthusiasm with fans through a joint Instagram post, commemorating the significance of their rekindled collaboration. In a heartfelt caption, they expressed their delight: “10 years on from the first record of covers we did together, we’re beside ourselves to pick it back up with a few new songs.” This sentiment underscores the organic and long-standing creative bond between Beam and Bridwell, promising a collection that is both nostalgic and forward-looking for music fans.
The recording sessions for ‘Making Good Time’ took place earlier this year in North Carolina, benefiting from the skilled guidance of producer Brad Cook and the exceptional talent of the house band. This carefully curated environment allowed for an authentic and intimate sound, ensuring that each cover resonates with the distinctive artistic touch of both Iron and Wine and Ben Bridwell. The meticulous attention to detail in the studio is evident in the polished yet raw feel of the upcoming covers album.
Beyond the standout “Luther” track, the EP features an eclectic selection of songs, demonstrating the duo’s broad musical tastes and willingness to experiment. The project includes their unique interpretations of tracks by iconic bands such as U2 and Foreigner, alongside contemporary indie darlings boygenius and the sophisticated artistry of Roxy Music. This diverse tracklist ensures that ‘Making Good Time’ will offer something for every music enthusiast, bridging generational gaps in its selection.
Ben Bridwell shed light on his personal connection to the project, particularly his decision to include “Luther.” In a press release, he revealed, “I chose to focus on ‘Luther’ after kinda hitting a wall wondering which songs would be best to contribute. After much hand-wringing, it hit me, ‘Why not just do my favorite song?’ I’d been playing the then–newly released album on repeat and that song in particular with my girls to the point of exhaustion.” His candid reflection highlights the genuine passion driving these artist collaborations.
Adding to the excitement surrounding the EP, Iron and Wine and Band of Horses are set to embark on a joint tour across the United States in September and October. This highly anticipated tour will bring their combined talents to cities including Redmond, Portland, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, and Anaheim, offering fans an unparalleled opportunity to experience these indie folk legends live and perhaps hear new material from ‘Making Good Time’.
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