Last time we spoke to The Federales, they were working on their second CD; last night we helped them celebrate the release of Honkytonks & Hangovers, which is being released on Friday (July 17) after a sneak-peek listening session on Thursday at 7pm. They will be text- chatting with folks as we collectively listen to the record together. A fun spin on how to be together apart.
Ben Miller and James Gould from The Federales joined us; James in Minneapolis and Ben in NYC. It’s funny to think of how much time they must have spent together in the band over the last 8 years and now they haven’t been in a room together since February. But that hasn’t stopped them from making music.
It sounds like they have been downright prolific, taking turns working on joint projects. It’s been a new way to work – very collaborative in a way that apparently opens the door to marathon sessions for them as individuals. I’m a little jealous of the focus. It also sounds like it’s been a time to play new instruments and try out new recording tips and tricks.
It led us to imagine the amount of new music we are all likely to hear (from the Federales and others) in 3-6 months’ time. It will be fun to compare the approaches, moods and modes folks develop during the pandemic and world events – I think we may be hearing more psychedelia from James and Ben. And maybe more verses from the North Dakota Truck Driving Man – you’ll have to listen to the interview to learn more about this real character!
Mostly Minnesota 