Drawing listeners into the history of the Blue Ridge Mountains, “Crooked Road” gets its inspiration from Virginia’s Heritage Music Trail.
SOUTHWEST VIRGINIA (June 2024) – Steve Erickson unveils his fourth studio album, "Crooked Road," sharing a contemporary perspective on traditional Appalachian music. Drawing inspiration from Virginia’s Heritage Music Trail, a 333-mile journey through Southwest Virginia's rich musical landmarks, the album pays homage to the region's old-time and bluegrass traditions.
The album's title track, “Crooked Road,” narrates the journey along this historic trail with its evocative lyrics and melodic structure, celebrating the cultural milestones and timeless sounds of the storied region.
Blending authentic folk melodies with innovative interpretations, the album paints vivid pictures of life's joys and sorrows in the landscapes of the Appalachian Mountains. Produced in collaboration with acclaimed producer Jim Robeson, the tracks immerse listeners in the region's vibrant heritage.
Erickson’s original compositions, such as “Lay Me Down Beside My Love,” are interwoven with traditional tunes like “Fair and Tender Ladies” and “In The Sweet By and By,” creating a tapestry of Americana soundscapes. The album also features the upbeat “Perfect Day” and “Find a Light,” juxtaposed with the more somber “Flip Side” and “We Don’t Love Us Anymore.”
Erickson seamlessly blends traditional sounds with contemporary flair, creating a unique auditory experience showcasing his passion for Appalachian traditions and music. His meticulous approach to production is evident throughout the album, with a rich array of acoustic instruments and contributions from talented musicians in the genre.
"Crooked Road" is available now on all major streaming platforms.
Cover Art for "Crooked Road" by Brett Sayles
About Steve Erickson:
Steve Erickson is a seasoned musician whose journey into music began alongside a successful career in public relations across Atlanta, New York City, and Washington DC. Drawing from a diverse range of musical influences, Erickson's songwriting style blends elements of country, blues, and folk.
Originally involved with local bands like Truth in Advertising in Atlanta and later collaborating with Nick Peters in the duo Medium Gauge in Washington DC, Erickson has since established himself as a solo artist. Currently based between Asheville, North Carolina, and Vero Beach, Florida, Erickson's musical repertoire is characterized by introspective storytelling and a rich sound.
His discography includes notable releases such as It's About Time (2012), Music Tonight (2016), and Moving On (2019). His latest release, Crooked Road (2024), explores Appalachian music traditions with tracks like "Crooked Road" and "Lay Me Down Beside My Love." Known for his ability to craft evocative narratives and connect deeply with his audience, Steve Erickson continues to evolve as a notable figure in contemporary Americana music.
For more about Steve Erickson and his music, visit his official website.