Alan Sparhawk Collaborates with Trampled by Turtles for New Album: A Musical Journey Through Minnesota Roots

Table of Contents

1. Key Highlights
2. Introduction
3. A Minnesota Musical Legacy
4. Recording at Pachyderm Studios
5. The First Single: "Stranger"
6. Tour and Upcoming Events
7. Conclusion
8. FAQ

Key Highlights

• Alan Sparhawk, known for his work with Low, announces a new collaborative album with Trampled by Turtles set for release on May 30, 2025.
• The album, recorded at the iconic Pachyderm Studios, features a mix of new material and previously unreleased songs from Sparhawk’s catalog.
• The lead single "Stranger" has been released, tapping into familiar acoustic sounds that resonate with fans of both artists.
• Sparhawk begins a tour starting March 26, showcasing music from his latest projects in both the U.S. and Europe.

Introduction

In September 2024, Alan Sparhawk of the influential band Low took a bold step with his debut solo album, White Roses, Nearer My God. Little did fans know, he had already been working on his next project—a collaboration with celebrated Minnesota folk-rock band Trampled by Turtles. Scheduled for release on May 30, 2025, the self-titled album Alan Sparhawk With Trampled by Turtles promises a blend of fresh sounds intertwined with nostalgia for both artists’ shared musical roots. Set in the famous Pachyderm Studios, known for hosting bands like Nirvana, this record becomes a testament to enduring musical connections that thrive in the face of evolving genres.

A Minnesota Musical Legacy

Alan Sparhawk’s relationship with Trampled by Turtles is rooted deeply in the rich musical history of Minnesota. Emerging from the vibrant Duluth music scene, Sparhawk and the late Mimi Parker, his lifelong collaborator and partner in Low, helped nurture the bluegrass and folk influences that characterize Trampled by Turtles’ sound. As bands that began their journeys in local bars, their paths crossed numerous times, fostering a mutual understanding and appreciation for their artistry.

“There's a certain vibe that has to do with underdog syndrome, coming from a small town,” Sparhawk remarked, reflecting on the chemistry between himself and Trampled by Turtles. This shared background creates a unique synergy, allowing each artist to push musical boundaries while remaining grounded in their roots.

Recording at Pachyderm Studios

The decision to record at Pachyderm Studios played a pivotal role in shaping the sonic landscape of this album. Famous for its intimate atmosphere and superior acoustics, Pachyderm has served as the birthplace for numerous iconic albums, including Nirvana's In Utero. Sparhawk and Trampled by Turtles seized this opportunity during an early 2024 session, utilizing the studio's reputation for fostering creativity to explore new dimensions in their music.

Initially, the collaboration began with Sparhawk contributing a couple of songs, but the endeavor quickly evolved into a full-length album. “The songs I wrote during the Low years didn’t quite work out in that context, but they found new life here,” Sparhawk explained. This resurgence reflects a common pattern in artistic careers, where earlier works can be rejuvenated through collaboration and fresh interpretation.

The First Single: "Stranger"

The first single from the album, "Stranger," debuted alongside the album announcement, evoking familiar melodies intertwined with lyrical depth. For long-time fans of Sparhawk and listeners of Low, "Stranger" marks a return to a warm acoustic sensibility—a stark contrast to the more experimental sound found in White Roses, Nearer My God.

Listeners have responded positively, noting the song's blend of nostalgia and relatability. Critics have pointed out that it resonates with the experiences of those who may feel like outsiders, mirroring the sentiments voiced by Sparhawk in past compositions. The evocative banjo and harmonica melodies characteristic of Trampled by Turtles complement Sparhawk’s raw vocal delivery, making "Stranger" a promising precursor to the entire album.

Tour and Upcoming Events

With the album release on the horizon, Alan Sparhawk will hit the road, starting a tour that kicks off in Bloomington, Indiana, on March 26, 2025. The tour promises to showcase not only the new album's tracks but also a selection of beloved classics from both Sparhawk’s and Trampled by Turtles' repertoires. For fans and new listeners alike, this tour is a chance to engage with the artists' stories, celebrating the depth of their musical journeys.

Tour Dates

• Mar. 26: Bloomington, IN – The Bishop
• Mar. 27: Knoxville, TN – Big Ears Festival
• Mar. 29: Atlanta, GA – The Earl
• Mar. 31: Carrboro, NC – Cat’s Cradle Back Room
• Apr. 1: Washington, DC – Atlantis
• Apr. 2: Brooklyn, NY – Elsewhere
• Apr. 3: Boston, MA – Sinclair
• Apr. 4: Hamden, CT – Space Ballroom
• Apr. 5: Philadelphia, PA – PhilaMOCA
• Apr. 7: Toronto, ON – Horseshoe
• Apr. 8: Detroit, MI – Loving Touch
• Apr. 9: Chicago, IL – Thalia Hall
• Apr. 10: Minneapolis, MN – First Ave (w/ Mount Eerie)
• Apr. 11: Milwaukee, WI – Turner Hall (w/ Mount Eerie)
• May 28: Liverpool, UK – Arts Club
• May 29: London, UK – EartH
• May 30: Portsmouth, UK – Wedgewood Rooms
• May 31: Utrecht, Netherlands – TivoliVredenBurg (Cloud Nine)
• Jun. 2: Turin, IT – Spazio211
• Jun. 3: Rome, IT – Largo Venue
• Jun. 4: Bologna, IT – Express Festival (Locomotiv Club)
• Jun. 5: Milan, IT – Unaltrofestival – Magnolia
• Jun. 7: Barcelona, ES – Primavera Festival
• Jun. 9: Madrid, ES – Sala El Sol
• Jun. 12: Porto, PT – Primavera Festival
• Jun. 14: Istanbul, TUR – Blind
• Aug. 2: Tasov, CZ – Beseda Festival
• Aug. 3: Katowice, PL – OFF Festival
• Aug. 5: Copenhagen, DK – Lille Vega
• Aug. 9: Sicily, IT – Ypsigrock Festival
• Aug. 11: Cambridge, UK – Junction 2
• Aug. 12: Newcastle, UK – The Cluny
• Aug. 13: Nottingham, UK – Rescue Rooms
• Aug. 14: Norwich, UK – Norwich Arts Centre
• Aug. 15: Glanusk Park, UK – GreenMan Festival

Impacts on the Music Scene

The announcement of this collaboration is significant not just for fans of Sparhawk and Trampled by Turtles, but for the broader music landscape. It illustrates a continued merging of genres, where folk, rock, and experimental music can coexist and inform each other. The collaboration also emphasizes the importance of regional music scenes; as artists return to their roots, they cultivate an environment where collective creativity flourishes.

Moreover, the significance of collaborating with another band from Minnesota provides a strong sense of community. In the current climate of music, where many artists often find themselves in competitive spaces, Sparhawk and Trampled by Turtles symbolize a refreshing departure toward support and collaboration. Their efforts may inspire other artists to similarly explore synergies beyond traditional genres and connections.

Conclusion

With an album release approaching and an extensive tour on the horizon, Alan Sparhawk’s collaboration with Trampled by Turtles invites listeners into a rich tapestry of sound that reflects both nostalgia and innovation. "Stranger" serves as both a call to the past and a beacon for future explorations in music. As music lovers await the arrival of May 30, 2025, they can anticipate not only the new album but also a revival of the deep-seated musical relationships that thrive across Minnesota’s artistic landscape.

FAQ

When will Alan Sparhawk's new album with Trampled by Turtles be released?

The album is set to release on May 30, 2025.

What is the first single from the album?

The first single from the album is titled "Stranger."

Where was the album recorded?

The album was recorded at Pachyderm Studios in Minnesota, known for its acoustic excellence.

How can I see Alan Sparhawk live?

Alan Sparhawk will begin his tour on March 26, 2025, with multiple dates across the United States and Europe.

What styles can we expect on the new album?

The album will showcase a blend of folk and acoustic sounds characteristic of both Sparhawk and Trampled by Turtles, drawing from their respective musical backgrounds and experiences.

Is this Alan Sparhawk's first solo project?

No, this collaboration follows his debut solo project titled White Roses, Nearer My God, released in September 2024.

How long is the upcoming tour?

Alan Sparhawk’s tour will last several months, with both domestic and international dates set through mid-August 2025.