SINGER/SONGWRITER/MULTI-INTRUMENTALIST ERIK BUELL SET TO RELEASE FIRST ALBUM IN FOURTEEN YEARS; ‘DUST SETTLES’ OUT ON JUNE 7
Twelve-Song Collection Produced By Ralph Carter
Singer/songwriter/multi-instrumentalist Erik Buell is set to release his second studio album ‘Dust Settles’ on June 7. Becoming known for his evocative songcraft, this new project blends Americana and heartland rock influences with Buell’s soul-tinged vocals as he sings about finding strength in honesty, the power of vulnerability and the experience of reconnecting and marrying his college sweetheart after decades apart.
Although Buell started playing music at fourteen years old, he didn’t record his first studio album ‘Anthem’ until 2010. For the past four decades, Buell’s name has been synonymous with the motorcycle industry, including a coveted spot in the Motorcycle Hall of Fame. Founder of Buell Motorcycles, his company was acquired by Harley-Davidson in 1993. Thereafter, he founded EBR, which built American superbikes and provided engineering consulting, followed by the creation of FUELL, a company for e-bicycles and e-motorcycles.
Three years ago, Buell started to move away from motorcycling and began to focus on music and his skills as a storyteller. He found himself making a stylistic departure from his previous hard rock recordings and leaning into Americana and country sounds.
Recorded in Ventura, CA at Ralph’s Garage, ‘Dust Settles’ was produced by Ralph Carter and features twelve original songs, all written by Buell. For this project, Buell enlisted a bevy of notable session players and musician friends that share decades of studio and touring experience, aptly naming them “Friends Out West” including Carter (Eddie Money, Dancing With Stars) on bass, guitar, keys, percussion; Gary Mallaber (Steve Miller, Eddie Money, Bruce Springsteen) on drums and percussion; Phil Parlapiano (John Prine.The Shape of Water) on keys; Jesse Kennemer on guitar; Doug Pettibone (Lucinda Williams, John Mayer) on pedal steel and Annie Bzdawka on harmony vocals.
Of the new album, Buell says “I’ve had an amazing and blessed life overall. There have been many dark and sad times, as well as bright and happy times. For me, this album marks the first time I’ve been able to record songs that capture those deep feelings. Everything I’m writing these days comes from that uncovered well.”
“My hope is that these songs connect with others. At our core, we are all very much alike. We are full of emotions that we keep to ourselves, while wondering if others feel the same. Recognize that. Be kind to each other.The best of roads are ahead.”
The album kicks off with “You’re Not Alone In this World,” a potent roots-rocker about reconnecting with his wife after twenty-five years apart, followed by the atmospheric “Fading Perfume.”
Other highlights include the propulsive “Mr. Pious,” with its commentary on religious hypocrisy and the prog rock-tinged title track. Switching gears, “Crank Up That Jukebox” is brimming with a swaggering blend of Western swing that takes the listener back to Buell’s days spent in the San Antonio honkytonks.
“Together” is a jaunty, pop-infused take on how love can change one’s outlook and life for the best. Rounding out the album, the sentimental, Caribbean-flared “In My Arms Again” shows Buell professing his appreciation for the love of his life and his gratitude for having found her again after being apart for many years.
‘Dust Settles’ Track Listing
You’re Not Alone In This World
Fading Perfume
Came For A Party
Mr. Pious
Forgotten Things
Dust Settles
Crank Up That Jukebox
I Don’t Know
Sweet River
Together
Warm Wind
In My Arms Again
