Guess what? After a long hiatus of 12 years, Beachwood Sparks is making a grand re-entry. They’re dropping a new album titled Across the River of Stars on July 19, courtesy of Curation. And guess what else? They’ve got some tour dates lined up too. It’s like they never left.
The lead single, “Torn in Two,” is out and it’s not just any song. It comes with a delightful video, boasting hand-drawn animations by Mark Neeley. You’ve gotta see it to believe it. Check it out below, and while you’re at it, take a gander at the album tracklist and those tour dates they’ve teased.
It’s been a minute since we last heard from the Los Angeles alt-country band. Their previous work, The Tarnished Gold, came out in 2012. Following that, in 2013, they gave us Desert Skies, an archival treasure. With Across the River of Stars, they’ve teamed up with producer Chris Robinson. They’re diving back into their signature sound – a mix of twangy psychedelia and ethereal melodies. It’s like they’re picking up right where they left off.
In a bit of somber news, Josh Schwartz, the band’s guitarist and songwriter, passed away in 2017. He was only 45. Diagnosed with ALS, Schwartz was a pivotal part of Beachwood Sparks since joining in 1997. He had a hand in creating Desert Skies before he left the band in 1999. His legacy, however, lives on. Not just with Beachwood Sparks, but also through his solo project, Painted Hills, and his collaborations with numerous artists over the years.
They’re back, and it sounds like they’re here to stir the pot in the best way possible. With new music, a tour, and a legacy to honor, it’s going to be quite the ride.
