Like the Tragically Hip before him, Sam Roberts has achieved massive success in Canada without ever really managing to break through south of the border. Now, Roberts and his band of bearded bros are getting to release a new album, Collider, due out on May 10 via Zoë/Rounder.
While past albums have been credited to the singer-songwriter alone, this one is being released under the name Sam Roberts Band. The album could be a departure from the retro-rock stylings that have been Roberts's trademark until now, as a press release contains descriptors like "brass-blasted Afro-funk blowout" and "simmering soul shuffle." Then again, it's also said to "[reinforce] the spirit of the band's classic pop song craft and infectious melodies."
The disc features guest appearances from Califone percussionist Ben Massarella and Antibalas Afrobeat Orchestra woodwind player Stuart Bogie, who "[fire] up the band's funkiness." Land of Talk's Elizabeth Powell also lends her vocals to the duet "Longitude." Collider was produced by Brian Deck, who has previously worked with artists like Iron & Wine and Modest Mouse.
As for where the LP got its name, Roberts explained, "Ideas collide, especially when you're making music. When you take things that are seemingly different, you can smash them together and create something new."
Look for the single "I Feel You" to arrive on Canadian airwaves soon.
While past albums have been credited to the singer-songwriter alone, this one is being released under the name Sam Roberts Band. The album could be a departure from the retro-rock stylings that have been Roberts's trademark until now, as a press release contains descriptors like "brass-blasted Afro-funk blowout" and "simmering soul shuffle." Then again, it's also said to "[reinforce] the spirit of the band's classic pop song craft and infectious melodies."
The disc features guest appearances from Califone percussionist Ben Massarella and Antibalas Afrobeat Orchestra woodwind player Stuart Bogie, who "[fire] up the band's funkiness." Land of Talk's Elizabeth Powell also lends her vocals to the duet "Longitude." Collider was produced by Brian Deck, who has previously worked with artists like Iron & Wine and Modest Mouse.
As for where the LP got its name, Roberts explained, "Ideas collide, especially when you're making music. When you take things that are seemingly different, you can smash them together and create something new."
Look for the single "I Feel You" to arrive on Canadian airwaves soon.
