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Iron & Wine and Ben Bridwell Preview New EP With Cover of Kendrick Lamar & SZA's 'Luther'

Iron & Wine and Ben Bridwell Team Up for Eclectic Covers Album: A Preview of 'Sing Into My Mouth'

In the ever-evolving landscape of indie folk and rock, collaborations often yield unexpected gems, and the upcoming album *Sing Into My Mouth* by Iron & Wine's Sam Beam and Band of Horses frontman Ben Bridwell stands as a testament to that. Set for release on July 17 via Black Cricket Recording Co./Brown Records, this joint effort is a collection of covers that spans decades and genres, reinterpreting songs from artists as diverse as Talking Heads, Sade, and John Cale. The project, born out of a longstanding friendship and mutual admiration, promises to blend Beam's introspective, whispery folk sensibilities with Bridwell's more robust, anthemic rock edge. As a tantalizing preview, the duo has shared their rendition of Beck's "Coyote," a track that encapsulates the album's spirit of reinvention and homage.

The origins of *Sing Into My Mouth* trace back to casual conversations between Beam and Bridwell, who first crossed paths over a decade ago during tours and festival circuits. Beam, known for his solo work under the Iron & Wine moniker, has built a career on poetic lyricism and acoustic intimacy, with albums like *The Shepherd's Dog* and *Ghost on Ghost* earning him a devoted following. Bridwell, on the other hand, leads Band of Horses, a band celebrated for its soaring melodies and emotional depth in records such as *Everything All the Time* and *Infinite Arms*. Their friendship deepened through shared influences and a love for digging into the crates of music history. "We've been talking about doing something together for years," Beam shared in a recent interview. "It just felt right to finally make it happen, especially with songs that have meant a lot to us personally."

The album's tracklist is a curated journey through musical nostalgia, featuring 12 covers that reflect the artists' eclectic tastes. Among them is a haunting take on Talking Heads' "This Must Be the Place (Naive Melody)," where Beam's delicate fingerpicking intertwines with Bridwell's harmonious vocals, transforming the new wave classic into a folk-rock reverie. They tackle Sade's smooth R&B hit "Bullet Proof Soul" with a stripped-down arrangement that emphasizes vulnerability, stripping away the original's polish to reveal raw emotion. John Cale's "You Know More Than I Know" gets a brooding, atmospheric treatment, while El Perro del Mar's "Coyote" – wait, no, the preview track is actually Beck's "Coyote" from his *Golden Feelings* era, but the album includes a variety of such picks. Other highlights include interpretations of Ronnie Lane's "Done This One Before," Them Two's "Am I a Good Man," and even a nod to Spiritualized with "Broken Heart." The diversity isn't just in the artists covered but in the eras: from the 1970s grit of JJ Cale's "Magnolia" to the 1990s alternative vibe of Bonnie 'Prince' Billy's "Then the Letting Go."

What makes this collaboration particularly intriguing is how Beam and Bridwell approach these songs not as mere replicas but as personal reinterpretations. In their version of Beck's "Coyote," the track takes on a dreamy, ethereal quality. Originally a lo-fi, experimental piece from Beck's early days, the duo infuses it with acoustic guitars and layered harmonies, creating a sound that's both nostalgic and fresh. "We wanted to honor the originals but also make them our own," Bridwell explained. "Sam's got this incredible way of making everything feel intimate, like a late-night conversation, and I bring a bit more energy to it. It's a balance." The preview track, available for streaming now, showcases this dynamic perfectly – Beam's soft-spoken delivery contrasts with Bridwell's warmer tones, resulting in a rendition that's meditative yet engaging.

Delving deeper into the creative process, the album was recorded over several sessions in Beam's home studio in North Carolina and additional spots in South Carolina, where Bridwell resides. This homey setting allowed for a relaxed atmosphere, free from the pressures of major-label deadlines. "We didn't overthink it," Beam noted. "We'd pick songs that resonated with us, maybe ones we'd played around campfires or in hotel rooms on tour. It was about capturing that spontaneity." The production is understated, relying on live takes with minimal overdubs, which preserves the organic feel. Guest musicians, including members from both artists' bands, add subtle flourishes – a pedal steel here, a harmonica there – but the focus remains on the vocals and the interplay between the two leads.

This isn't the first time Beam and Bridwell have crossed paths creatively. Back in 2011, Iron & Wine covered Band of Horses' "Neighbor" for a split single, and Bridwell has guested on Iron & Wine tracks. Their shared Southern roots – Beam from South Carolina, Bridwell from there as well before relocating – infuse the project with a sense of regional authenticity. Influences from Americana, folk, and indie rock permeate the album, creating a bridge between their respective worlds. Fans of Iron & Wine's subdued introspection will find solace in the quieter moments, while Band of Horses enthusiasts will appreciate the moments of uplift and harmony.

Beyond the music itself, *Sing Into My Mouth* speaks to broader themes in the industry: the value of collaboration in an era of solo streaming dominance, and the enduring appeal of covers as a way to pay tribute while innovating. In a time when original content floods the market, revisiting classics can feel like a breath of fresh air. "Covers allow you to step into someone else's shoes," Bridwell mused. "You learn about the song's bones, and then you rebuild it with your own experiences." This philosophy is evident throughout the album, where each track feels like a conversation between past and present.

As the release date approaches, anticipation is building. The duo plans a limited tour to support the album, with intimate shows that mirror the record's vibe – think small venues where the audience can feel the closeness of the performances. Early reviews from those who've heard advance copies praise the chemistry between Beam and Bridwell, calling it a "match made in indie heaven." One critic noted that their version of "This Must Be the Place" could become a staple at weddings and gatherings, much like the original has.

For Beam, this project represents a departure from his more narrative-driven solo work, allowing him to explore interpretation over creation. "It's liberating," he said. "You don't have to worry about writing the perfect line; it's already there. You just have to feel it." Bridwell echoes this, adding that the collaboration has reinvigorated his approach to music-making. "Working with Sam reminds me why I fell in love with music in the first place – the joy of sharing it with friends."

In previewing "Coyote," the duo offers a glimpse into what makes *Sing Into My Mouth* special: it's not just a covers album, but a heartfelt dialogue between two artists who've long admired each other's craft. The track's gentle strums and harmonious choruses evoke a sense of wandering and wonder, much like the coyote in the song – elusive, wild, and free. As listeners dive into the full album, they'll discover layers of emotion and musicianship that reward repeated listens.

This collaboration also highlights the interconnectedness of the indie scene. Beam and Bridwell's paths have intersected with other luminaries – Beam has worked with Calexico and Jesca Hoop, while Bridwell's Band of Horses has toured with the likes of My Morning Jacket. *Sing Into My Mouth* feels like an extension of that community, a project that celebrates influence and inspiration without ego.

Ultimately, what sets this album apart is its sincerity. In an industry often driven by trends, Beam and Bridwell have created something timeless by looking backward. Their covers aren't ironic or kitschy; they're reverent, infused with personal stories and shared histories. As Beam put it, "These songs have been with us through good times and bad. Singing them together feels like closing a circle."

With "Coyote" now out in the world, fans can stream it on various platforms, whetting appetites for the full release. Whether you're a die-hard follower of Iron & Wine's folk whispers or Band of Horses' rock anthems, *Sing Into My Mouth* promises to be a delightful convergence. It's a reminder that sometimes, the best new music comes from reimagining the old – and doing it with a friend by your side.

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Read the Full Billboard Article at:
[ https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/articles/iron-wine-ben-bridwell-preview-053452235.html ]