Singer-songwriter Nathaniel Paul has always been known for his well-crafted storytelling, but with "Steady as We Go," his new album, he takes an even further leap into the naked core of making music. He released this as his first full-length acoustic project, performing on nothing more than a guitar and harmonica, which gives the project a full-bodied, raw, and deeply touching feel.
With just over 25 minutes, the eight-song album brings you into an intimate place quietly sheltered from the hum of modern production, where the noise melts away and leaves you with nothing but Paul’s words, melodies, and personhood. The project was recorded live with more than 16 microphones and three cameras in the acoustically celebrated Leighton Concert Hall at the DeBartolo Performing Arts Center, University of Notre Dame, capturing every breath, strum, and nuance. This is an experience, a feeling that you are in the room with the artist.
The album is a call to embrace uncertainty with hope, humility, and perseverance, and to find the strength within oneself to turn the other cheek when the going gets tough. It’s a reassurance in times of rampant turbulence. Two standout tracks, “Beauty That We See” and the title song "Steady as We Go” is a testament to the fact that Paul has a way with lyrics that are straightforward, poetic, and inviting.
In addition to the five acoustic songs not previously released, Paul surprises fans with two acoustic performances of songs off his forthcoming studio album, as well as an exclusive first look at what’s ahead this fall. It’s a rare bridge between the intimate present and the promise of the grand stage to come. There’s beauty in simplicity, and by stripping down to the basics, Nathaniel Paul has crafted a raw album that sparkles with its honesty. "Steady as We Go" is a reminder that sometimes the most powerful music is made when there’s nothing between the artist and the listener.
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