Premiere: Stream Van William’s Debut Folk-Rock Stunner, ‘Countries’ Ahead Of Tonight’s Show

Though Van William is a music industry veteran, he’s releasing his first-ever solo album, Countries, this Friday, 1/19. Ahead of that release, we’re premiering a stream of the stunning folk-rock record, which I predicted last week will be a standout of 2018. Speaking with Uproxx in an interview, Van William detailed the writing and recording process for the album, and why he decided to put it out under his own name instead of working on the songs with his current band, WATERS.

Turns out, the song were simply too personal to fit with his past work, and mark a break from the music he’s created in the past. Countries is a collection of eleven wayward and heartfelt songs that detail the mourning and healing process after a breakup — or another big life loss — with warmth and precision.

Tackling everything from initial disagreements and early grief all the way through eventual acceptance and peace, the record moves with a relentless force through surging emotions, pairing soft melodies and simple songwriting with some of the most complex and deep feelings in the world. The resulting record is a rich exploration of the limits of a heart, and perhaps, its unexpected expanses. Stream Countries exclusively above, ahead of its release this Friday on Fantasy Records.

Also, make sure to come check out Van William performing live in Los Angeles tonight at the Moroccan Lounge for a show co-hosted by Uproxx. Doors are at 7 PM and the special guests joning Van Willam are Springtime Carnivore and Jim James!. Details on the show tonight below and tickets can be purchased here for just $5. See you tonight.

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