Clark Graham releases brand new record

Over the last few years, Canadian singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Clark Graham has made a name for himself through his deeply personal and honest music. Hailing from British Columbia and based out of his Vancouver studio, Clark has been recording and creating music from a young age, handling every aspect of his sonic output from conception to completion; composing, performing, recording and producing all his own music.

First making his official artistic entrance back in 2018 with the debut single “Scarecrow,” Clark’s impressive discography includes multiple well-received singles and albums. The most recent of which, his seventh record to date, is the brand new eight-track album titled Last Train To New Orleans.

The new album inspired by the varied southern landscapes and steeped in the traditions of country roots and folk Americana. The theme of leaving, a journey from where he’s been to where he’s going, runs throughout the album, giving it an escapist and reflective context, resulting in the perfect summer record.

Taking cues from classic country records of the 60s and 70s while paying tribute to traditional songwriting and production, channeling of the works of the Rolling Stones, Townes Van Zandt, Gram Parsons and Bob Dylan, with his new record, Clark Clark Graham captures a timeless sound and presents it for his modern audience.

Kicking off the record with “Bourbon Street Blues,” a laid back shuffle of drums and lilting brass lines sets an upbeat bluesy jam capped by Clark’s rich vocals. Threading catchy melodies leads above the vibrant arrangement, the song tracks the artist’s yearning for a journey to New Orleans while capturing an enduring sound that fans or Van Morrison would adore, as well as today’s crowd of singer-songwriter fans.

“Ash To The Wind” follows with a more sombre mood as Clark’s emotive voice flows above the soft strums of acoustic guitar, gentle rustle of percussion and warm piano chords. Casting an emotive moment on the record, it’s a delicate piece that distils classic country songwriting and aesthetic in spectacular fashion.

With “Can’t Get My Mind Off Of You” Clark Graham serves up a slow burning outing built on a gently swaying rhythm. With soft guitar backing and moments of bright brass pips riding the mellow drum beat, it’s another superb display of his songwriting and performance panache that perfectly adds to the journey of the record.

Other highlights on the album include songs like title track “Last Train To New Orleans” where playful piano backing and brushed drums set up Clark’s alluring voice to spin charming melodies carrying lyrics that transport you to the heart of the story. Subtly balancing soothing sonic textures with sing-along moments in the chorus, cut with harmonica leads, it’s perhaps the best example of what his new album delivers, wrapped up in four minutes of country-inflected musical bliss.

Closing the record with “Until The Wheels Fall Off,” Clark’s tender vocals hover above a gentle beat and the sweet tones of piano and harmonica to provide a beautiful finale to his sensational seventh record. Once again delivering his truly delightful sound via another incredible album, Clark Graham continues to draw on his influences from yesteryear and filters them through his own creative lens to craft music that’s truly special and sure to stand the test of time.

Listen to Last Train To New Orleans below