“Keep Your Distance,” The New Single From Acclaimed Roots Artist Danny Burns
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
In the intricate tapestry of Americana and Roots music, few artists blend traditions with the grace of Danny Burns. The Irish-born, Nashville-based singer-songwriter continues to cement his place with his latest single, “Keep Your Distance,” a contemplative and profound track from his upcoming album, Southern Sky. While his past work has soared to chart-topping heights with energetic bluegrass anthems, this song showcases a more intimate, Folk-inspired side of his artistry, revealing a quiet strength that resonates deeply. It is a testament to Burns’s ability to shift from the celebratory to the introspective with effortless skill.
Written by the legendary Richard Thompson, “Keep Your Distance” arrives with a poetic weight and a timeless quality. The lyrics deliver a powerful message of setting emotional boundaries and finding peace in stepping back. It’s a theme that feels particularly poignant in today’s world, where constant connection can often lead to emotional exhaustion. Burns’s vocal delivery is both tender and resolute, carrying the song’s heartfelt message with a sense of earned wisdom rather than bitterness. He doesn’t just sing the words; he embodies them, turning a simple piece of advice into a deeply personal declaration of self-preservation.
The single’s stripped-down, acoustic-driven soundscape is perfectly suited to the song’s reflective nature. Burns is joined by an all-star cast of musicians, and their collective talent creates a beautifully nuanced backdrop. The fiddle work of Billy Contreras and the banjo of Matt Menefee provide a traditional texture, while Cody Kilby’s guitar and Justin Moses’s dobro add a rich, soulful depth. The rhythm section, with Ethan Burkhardt on bass and Jerry Roe on drums, is subtle yet essential, driving the song forward without overpowering its delicate emotional core. The harmony vocals from Tim O’Brien are the final touch, blending seamlessly with Burns’s lead to create a sound that is both full and profoundly moving.
“Keep Your Distance” serves as a thoughtful final preview for Southern Sky, building anticipation for what promises to be a diverse and star-studded album. It’s a track that demonstrates the breadth of Burns’s vision and his willingness to explore a range of sounds. By leaning into a more acoustic, Folk-leaning style, he proves that his artistry is not defined by any single genre but by his commitment to authentic storytelling. This single is not only a fantastic song on its own, but also a perfect appetizer for an album that seems poised to further solidify Danny Burns’s reputation as a masterful storyteller and a vital voice in modern roots music.