Alison Krauss & Union Station’s “Arcadia”: A Long-Awaited Return and a Bold New Chapter
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
The world of bluegrass is abuzz with the long-awaited return of Alison Krauss & Union Station. After a 14-year hiatus, the iconic band is set to release their new album, “Arcadia,” on March 28th via Down The Road Records. In anticipation of this momentous occasion, Get It Played is delivering the first two singles, “Looks Like The End Of The Road” and the newly released “Granite Mills,” directly to bluegrass radio DJs, offering an exclusive glimpse into the group’s latest masterpiece. This Friday, DJs will also receive the full album, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of “Arcadia.”
“Arcadia” is a testament to the enduring talent and collaborative spirit of Alison Krauss & Union Station. Featuring ten timeless tracks, the album explores the complexities of life, weaving together stories of beauty and tragedy with the band’s signature blend of musical virtuosity and emotional depth. After decades of shaping the landscape of bluegrass and beyond, this album reaffirms their status as one of the most influential and celebrated acts of their generation.
The first single, “Looks Like The End Of The Road,” has already garnered critical acclaim, with Rolling Stone praising Alison Krauss’ “undiminished soprano” and Billboard highlighting Jerry Douglas’ “soul-piercing steel guitar.” The track, written by Jeremy Lister, showcases the band’s ability to infuse contemporary songwriting with their traditional bluegrass sound, creating a captivating and emotionally resonant experience. The New York Times further emphasized the song’s power, noting how Krauss’s voice “heightened” the song’s emotional core.
Now, with the release of “Granite Mills,” fans are treated to a traditional song that tells a stark and poignant tale. This track marks a significant moment for the band, as it features the debut vocal performance of their newest member, Russell Moore.
Alison Krauss herself expressed her excitement about Moore’s addition, stating, “Jerry, Ron, Barry and I all met when Dan Tyminski left the band, and Jerry asked me, ‘What do you think?’ I said, ‘Russell Moore,’ and they all said, ‘Absolutely!’ I couldn’t believe it when we went into the studio and his voice came through the speakers. He just stands there and sings with his hands in his pockets, and he kills it. The first song he did was ‘Granite Mills’ and about 10 minutes in, Ron was covering his mouth because he started giggling. Russell came in and inspired us all.”
Russell Moore, best known as the frontman of the chart-topping group IIIrd Tyme Out, is the most awarded male vocalist in the history of the International Bluegrass Music Association. His inclusion in Union Station further elevates the band’s already legendary status, adding another layer of depth and richness to their sound.
Alison Krauss & Union Station’s legacy is unparalleled. With over 70 collective GRAMMY® Awards, tens of millions of albums sold, and countless other accolades, they have cemented their place in music history. Even during their extended hiatus, each member continued to pursue successful solo careers and collaborate with some of the world’s greatest artists, all while patiently collecting songs that would eventually form the foundation of “Arcadia.”
“Arcadia” features compositions from a diverse range of talented songwriters, including Robert Lee Castleman, Viktor Krauss, Bob Lucas, JD McPherson, and Sarah Siskind. Recorded in studios across Nashville, the album follows the success of their 2011 release, “Paper Airplane,” which debuted at #1 on the Billboard Country, Bluegrass, and Folk Charts.
To bring the magic of “Arcadia” to life, Alison Krauss & Union Station are embarking on a 75-date North American tour this spring. The tour will feature Alison Krauss (fiddle, lead vocals), Jerry Douglas (Dobro, lap steel, vocals), Ron Block (banjo, guitar, vocals), Barry Bales (bass, vocals), and Russell Moore (co-lead vocals, guitar, mandolin).
The tour will take them to iconic venues such as Red Rocks Amphitheatre, LA’s Greek Theatre, and NYC’s Beacon Theatre, among many others. Special guest Willie Watson will join them on select dates, adding another layer of artistry to their already captivating performances.
“Arcadia” marks a triumphant return for Alison Krauss & Union Station, showcasing their enduring talent and their ability to create music that transcends time and genre. With “Looks Like The End Of The Road” and “Granite Mills” already making waves, and the full album poised to captivate audiences, the band’s latest chapter promises to be one of their most remarkable yet.