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James McMurtry Unveils Long-Awaited Album

Renowned Texas singer-songwriter James McMurtry is set to release his first album in four years, titled The Black Dog and the Wandering Boy. This new collection serves as a follow-up to his 2021 album, The Horses and the Hounds. The album is deeply personal, drawing from McMurtry’s experiences surrounding the passing of his father, a theme explored directly in the titular song, released today. For those interested, the track can be streamed via Rolling Stone.

In discussing the album, McMurtry shared insights about its origin. He mentioned that both the album title and the song were inspired by conversations with his stepmother, Faye. Following his father’s death, she recounted to McMurtry how his father, who had suffered from dementia, often talked about his visions of a “black dog” and a “wandering boy.” Intrigued by these stories, McMurtry used them as a springboard to craft a fictional narrative.

Scheduled for release on June 20 through New West Records, The Black Dog and the Wandering Boy showcases McMurtry’s collaboration with Don Dixon, who co-produced the album. The record features a roster of talented musicians, including Sarah Jarosz, Charlie Sexton, Bonnie Whitmore, Bukka Allen, accordionist and vocalist BettySoo, bassist Cornbread, guitarist Tim Holt, and drummer Darren Hess.

The album’s track listing includes:

The Black Dog and the Wandering Boy:

01 Laredo (Small Dark Something)
02 South Texas Lawman
03 The Color of Night
04 Pinocchio in Vegas
05 Annie
06 The Black Dog and the Wandering Boy
07 Back to Coeur d’Alene
08 Sons of the Second Sons
09 Sailing Away
10 Broken Freedom Song

Source
pitchfork.com