From the Strand to the Stage: New Music, Milestones, and What’s Ahead
Apparently, summer has decided it isn’t quite finished with us yet.
After more than a few hot and humid days here in Maine, I have to admit I’m looking forward to cooler evenings, open windows, and everything that comes with fall. That said, it’s been a pretty remarkable summer, and there’s plenty happening as we head into the next season.
A Memorable Trip to Atlanta
One of the real highlights of the summer was traveling to Atlanta for the ISSA Awards, where Carrownisky Strand received the Bronze Award for Male Album of the Year.
I’ve said it before: awards aren’t why we make music. But having an album recognized by fellow songwriters and people in the independent music community is something I’m incredibly grateful for. Carrownisky Strand is a collection of songs that means a great deal to me, so seeing it receive this kind of recognition was pretty special.
Just as important was the opportunity to spend time with other independent artists, songwriters, and music folks in Atlanta. There’s something energizing about being around people who are all out there doing the same crazy thing—writing songs, playing shows, and trying to find an audience willing to listen.
Back Into the Studio
And apparently I haven’t learned my lesson, because we’re doing it again.
I’m in the beginning stages of recording a new album, tentatively titled Wild Atlantic Way. It’s still early days, so I won’t give too much away just yet, but the songs continue down the road I’ve been traveling for the past few years—stories about people, places, relationships, the things we carry with us, and that Celtic thread that keeps finding its way into my music.
There will be plenty more to share as the project takes shape.
A Busy Fall Ahead
The calendar is also beginning to fill up. I’ll be returning to the Blue Mermaid for a couple of shows over the next few months, and I’m especially looking forward to taking part in an upcoming ISSA Songwriters in the Round in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
Songwriter rounds are one of my favorite ways to experience music. Strip away the production and everything else and you’re left with a songwriter, an instrument, a song, and the story behind it. That’s pretty much where I like to live.
I’m also beginning something a little closer to home that I’m particularly excited about—a series of performances at local care homes. Music has an amazing ability to bring back memories, start conversations, and create connections between people. I’m hoping these concerts can become a regular part of my schedule and another way of staying connected to the community around me.
That connection is important to me beyond music as well. I regularly volunteer at our local food pantry, Gather, helping prepare food for our neighbors. After spending much of my working life in kitchens, it feels good to put those skills to work in a different way. Whether it’s preparing a meal or playing a familiar song, sometimes the simplest things are the ones that bring people together.
And increasingly, I think that’s what I want this next chapter to be about.
There are new songs to record, shows to play, places to travel, and hopefully a few adventures still waiting down the road. But there’s also something to be said for making music where you live, helping where you can, and being part of the community that supports you.
So here’s to cooler weather, another trip into the studio, and whatever comes next.
As always, thanks for listening, coming to the shows, sharing the music, and continuing along for the ride.
Onward!
🎧 Stream Global Music Awards winner “That's No Way To Treat A Lady” on your favorite platform or head over to the music page to download for free
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