I’m delighted to announce the first of 2 new releases in 2023, “Tracks and Traces”. The EP album features five original songs accompanied by Jacob Jolliff (2012 National Mandolin Champion), Louise Brodie on fiddle, Jeff Powel on dobro and organ, Jesse Stern on bass, and the cameo choir appearance of LuAnne Harley and Brian Kruschwitz. As always, I sing and accompany myself on guitar and banjo. [Read on for more details about each song, and how to order the album.]

“Off Highway 97” came out of my memories of growing up in the Okanogan River Valley in the rural north/central part of Washington State – walking along the railroad tracks, the irrigation ditch banks, the river, and highway 97. Even if it’s not where you’re from, it may remind you of your home, too. See and hear the free song video on YouTube.

“Shadows” was inspired during the early stages of the pandemic by several wisdom sayings that caught my eye by Ruth Renkel, Mark Twain, and Albert Camus. It evolved into this: 

“We don’t have to fear shadows

They just mean that there’s a light

Shining right behind them

Sayin’ it’ll be alright.”

“Requiem for Uvalde” is a haunting instrumental dedicated to the precious lives lost due to gun violence, and the unspeakable grief it causes.

“I’ll Kiss My Love” reflects on the few and most important things I try to remember to do every day.

“Only Love Will Remain” is a tender lullaby with comforting images not only for kids, but for all of us.

Here’s how to listen to preview sample of all 5 tracks or order the digital album.

Also coming very soon available now is a new songbook and compilation album, “SONGS for KIDS by Michael Stern & friends”. Learn more

All my albums and songbooks are now available as digital downloads. See the whole catalogue at: Michael Stern at Beatin’ Path