May Erlewine taps into her love for rock music for upcoming album and tour in Michigan
The talented musician, May Erlewine, from northern Michigan, has recently opened up about her new music in an exclusive interview with Local Spins. This article also premieres tracks from other Michigan artists, such as Michigander, G-Hollow, The Junky Swinger, and more.
May Erlewine decided it was time to bring a rock edge to her music. Collaborating with producer-musician Theo Katzman and a group of talented musicians they had worked with previously, including Phil Cook, Packy Lundholm, and Joel Gottschalk, their new album “What It Takes” was born. Erlewine expressed her sentiment, “I’ve been really craving making more rock music,” which led to a decision to infuse a rootsy rock vibe into this project.
During the recording sessions at Cinnamon Ranch in northern Michigan, Erlewine and her bandmates pushed their creative boundaries. Erlewine explained, “It took a lot of courage to kind of go into different spaces than I had before on a recording.” Despite the change in musical direction, Erlewine’s strong and powerful themes are still prevalent in the lyrics of the album, touching on love, frustration, disappointment, and personal growth.
Erlewine emphasized that the songs on the album speak to broader issues beyond personal relationships, reflecting the current state of the world. The album title, “What It Takes,” signifies the journey and challenges that culminated in the creation of this project.
Embarking on an album-release tour in April, Erlewine will be performing in various cities, including Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo, Ann Arbor, and Traverse City. Joining her on tour are musicians Lundholm, Gottschalk, drummer Ben Rose, and keyboardist Charlie Millard, with Katzman making a special appearance at the initial shows.
Despite her rock ‘n’ roll approach, Erlewine’s music remains tender-hearted and thoughtful. She strives to provide audiences with a sense of hope and connection through her performances, acknowledging the impactful nature of music in people’s lives.
Beyond her music, Erlewine has been an advocate for political and environmental causes, addressing these issues thoughtfully during her shows while promoting positivity and inclusivity. Recognizing the vibrant music scene in Michigan, Erlewine attributes its success to its collaborative and supportive community that values music as a vital aspect of life.
Local Spins on WYCE recently featured Erlewine’s new tracks “My Speed” and “Creature” from her latest album, along with music from other Michigan artists. This episode showcased the breadth of talent within the local music scene, highlighting the diverse and unique sounds emerging from Michigan.
May Erlewine’s commitment to authenticity and meaningful expression shines through in her music, resonating with audiences and capturing the essence of the human experience. Her latest album, “What It Takes,” is a testament to her growth as an artist and individual, embodying the journey that has led her to this point in her musical career.