Carrie Newcomer

Carrie Newcomer is a rare breed of singer/songwriter: the kind who illuminates life with startling depth, humor and clarity. Her ability for sharp observation of the world lead the Dallas Morning News to rave, “She's the kind of artist whose music makes you stop, think and then say, ‘that is so true’.” Mining what is true, Newcomer’s latest Rounder release, Before and After is a multi-layered work that invites the listener to slow down and reflect on the experiences that have changed and shaped our lives. On Before and After, Newcomer remarks, she has “peeled back another musical and emotional layer”. The result is melodious and smooth, infused with classic Newcomer grace and honesty, so that, she says “there is something unguarded and naked about this album.” Praised by Billboard as a “soaring songstress,” Newcomer is an acclaimed musician who continues to create music from her uniquely spiritual and poignant take on the world. Before and After is no exception, highlighting Newcomer’s ability to blend her rich alto with a poetic lyricism on a skillfully arranged and performed collection of folk roots tracks, with Appalachian and classical influences. “The joy and challenge in creating this album was endeavoring to be fearlessly uncluttered and subtle,” Newcomer says. The title track features an unforgettably haunting and beautiful duet with a special guest appearance by Mary Chapin Carpenter, launching the album with a remarkable collaboration from two of acoustic music’s most resonant female vocalists.