Charleston Celebrates the Release of Shovels & Rope’s New Album ‘Something Is Working Up Above My Head’

Charleston, SC Welcomes Shovels & Rope’s Latest Album

As the sun sets over Charleston, the air is filled with excitement as the local musical duo, Shovels & Rope, gears up to bring their fresh sounds to the stage with the release of their new album, Something Is Working Up Above My Head. This long-awaited record marks another milestone in the journey of Cary Ann Hearst and Michael Trent, a couple that has been captivating audiences since they formed their duo back in 2008.

New Album, New Vibes

The new album, their most recent release, is described as a blend of folk storytelling with a rock edge. The couple has spent over a decade crafting their sound, which has evolved significantly, but always retains its core essence. “This is the first record we’ve ever made that’s quintessentially us,” Cary Ann reflects, hinting at a deeper, more mature layer in their music that comes from their experiences over the years. With both artists embracing the salt-and-pepper look, the wisdom of their years is clear in their music.

On this album, they collaborated with the talented Gregory Alan Isakov on a track titled Love Song From A Dog, a quirky but adorable tune that has taken off since they started performing it live. “When we were on tour with him, the song got a lot of love,” Michael explains with a grin, showcasing how the collaborative spirit in music can lead to unexpected success.

Keeping it Real

In a refreshing approach, the duo recorded only what they could replicate live as a two-piece in the studio this time around, opting to pare back on the instrumentals more than in previous projects. “It’s all about authenticity for us,” says Cary Ann. The duo likes to keep their performances true to what they love, which often means playing multiple instruments and singing simultaneously, showcasing their talent and commitment to their craft.

This album features tracks that offer a vivid ride through storytelling, from the driving rhythms of Piranhanana to the haunting murder ballad Colorado River. Each song paints a picture of the duo’s storytelling prowess, filled with carefully crafted lyrics that carry weight and meaning.

Ready to Hit the Road

After just two weeks on the road promoting their album, the excitement is palpable as they speak about upcoming shows scheduled at the beloved Charleston Music Farm. They will be performing with Al Olender on October 3rd and 4th, and tickets are already generating buzz among fans. “We can’t wait to share our new album live with everyone,” Cary Ann shared enthusiastically, as both prepare for a fantastic evening celebrating their artistry and connecting with fans.

More Than Just Music

Shovels & Rope aren’t just musicians; they’re innovative creators. Aside from making beautiful music, they’re also working on children’s books and crafting visual content. They believe in using their voices to inspire others and contribute positively to their community. Speaking on their past involvement, they mention stepping away from curating the annual High Water Festival due to its growing size, which no longer aligned with their vision. “We wanted to keep it intimate, and it grew beyond that,” Michael shared, showcasing their dedication to remaining true to their artistic values.

As they navigate the ever-changing landscape of the music industry, one thing is clear: Cary Ann and Michael are not slowing down. With festivals and shows lined up, they continue to spread their music and message, excited about what lies ahead. “We’ll be out here road dogging until one of us breaks a hip or something,” Cary Ann humorously remarked, ensuring their fans they will always be there, sharing their stories through song.

So, if you’re in Charleston or nearby this October, don’t miss the chance to see an unforgettable duo live! The creativity of Shovels & Rope is not just a performance; it’s a celebration of music, life, and the stories that connect us all.