The Cumberland River Project shares “Midsummer”

Frank Renfordt may hail from the quiet city of Hagen, Germany, but with The Cumberland River Project, he’s created a heartfelt space in a genre that seems worlds away; Americana and country. It’s been a meandering journey that doesn’t trace a straight line, but winds through rock bands, detours and a late-blooming return to music that feels both genuine and worthwhile.

It all started with a childhood gift in the form of a guitar from his parents. By his teens, Frank was laying down bass lines in a rock outfit called RING, a band he’s still part of today. But as life took over, music faded into the background. It wasn’t until his mid-fifties that he returned to songwriting, driven by a personal renaissance and a newfound love for Americana sparked by visits to the USA, especially Nashville. That inspiration would soon take shape as The Cumberland River Project, a musical alias that channels Southern storytelling through a European lens.

Since debuting in 2020 with the single “Back On The Road,” The Cumberland River Project has flourished grown into something much more than a passion project. His songs have struck a chord with listeners far and wide, racking up streaming success and recognition, including a finalist spot in the UK Songwriting Contest and an Outstanding Achievement in Songwriting award from the Great American Song Contest. His 2024 EP Vain Regrets saw him on lead vocals for the first time and offer a more personal connection to his work.

Now, with the release of his latest single titled “Midsummer,” Frank adds another chapter to his ongoing exploration of cross-genre storytelling. This time linking up with Ukrainian singer Liliia Kysil, “Midsummer” takes a step beyond the borders of traditional Americana, stitching in Latin rhythms and pop vibes without losing the heart of country romance. It’s a track that leans into celebration and longing in equal measure, catching you off guard with its warmth and movement.

The song recounts a tale of young people gathered around a crackling campfire, laughter echoing into the dusk and a spark of love that ignites amid the summer air. Captured in a bright, upbeat folk pop soundscape, delicate guitar notes and rolling drums cast a charming arrangement as Liliia glides in to spin delicately catchy melodies carrying storytelling lyrics above the intricate instrumentation. With flutters of acoustic guitar leads that dance like the flickering flames of the camp fire, the artists craft a stunning jam that transports you straight to the scene.

Brimming with summer-ready charm and laid back groove, it’s a superb showcase of The Cumberland River Project’s musical range and songwriting panache. Once again serving up a dazzling collaboration, with “Midsummer,” Frank Renfordt shares a delightful musical moment that’s sure to win over both new and existing fans alike.

Listen to Midsummer below

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