Steamboat Locals strives to be the place you learn about new music first! Whether it’s a new song from an artist you know, or an innovative sound from an artist you ought to know, Steamboat Locals is constantly updating our music selection each week. Here are some new songs added just this past week:
“Life is Easy” – Andy Frasco & The U.N. with Billy Strings, Daniel Donato, Mike Gordon and Steve Polz
“Life Is Easy” is the latest single from Andy Frasco & The U.N., released in April 2025 as part of their upcoming tenth studio album, Growing Pains, set to debut on May 23. The track features an impressive lineup of collaborators, including bluegrass virtuoso Billy Strings, Phish bassist Mike Gordon, Cosmic Country guitarist Daniel Donato, and singer-songwriter Steve Poltz. This ensemble brings a rich tapestry of musical influences to the song, blending elements of folk, bluegrass, and jam-band styles. The song serves as a satirical protest anthem, addressing issues like consumerism and societal complacency with a blend of humor and sincerity. Frasco’s lyrics, such as “They’re selling us the blood / While they’re all bleeding us,” highlight the absurdities of modern life while encouraging listeners to find joy in simplicity. Frasco explains, “This is a song about turning off the news for a little bit and just enjoying life and stop fearing what we can’t control.” The upcoming album promises to explore the balance between life’s challenges and its simple pleasures, reflecting Frasco’s evolving artistry and commitment to authenticity. You will have the chance to see both Andy Frasco & The U.N. and Daniel Donato as part of this summer’s Steamboat Free Summer Concert Series on June 21 and July 31 respectively.
“Stoke Up High” – Graham Good and The Painters
Speaking of the June 21 kick off to the Steamboat Free Summer Concert Series, opening for Andy Frasco & The U.N. will be Colorado’s own Graham Good and The Painters. “Stoke Up High” is the latest single from them, fully encapsulating the band’s signature “Feel-Good, Funk-Rock-Folk” style. Drawing inspiration from the euphoria of finding love at a music festival, the song captures the essence of spontaneous connections and the magic of shared musical experiences. When they visit Howelsen Hill this summer, Graham Good & The Painters will show why they have built a reputation for their high-energy performances and genre-blending sound, providing opportunities to open for the likes of Andy Frasco. Listen to our Steamboat Sound Check Podcast featuring Graham Good, recorded in the summer of 2024, to learn more about his approach to creating music that resonates with positivity.
“Past Life” – Mihali with Satsang
“Past Life” is a collaborative single by Mihali and Satsang, released in April as part of Mihali’s album Before The Dream. The track blends Mihali’s reggae-infused guitar work with Satsang’s soulful vocals, creating a harmonious fusion that reflects both artists’ commitment to introspective and uplifting music. “Past Life” delves into themes of personal growth, self-discovery, and the journey of healing. The song’s contemplative lyrics invite listeners to reflect on their own experiences and the transformative power of embracing one’s past to forge a brighter future. “Past Life” stands as a testament to their shared vision of creating music that resonates on a deeply emotional level, offering solace and inspiration to their audience. This is a song you are likely to hear live when Mihali plays the Old Town Pub on August 1.
“Hold My Love” – Hans Williams
“Hold My Love” is the latest single from Vermont-born, New Orleans-based indie-soul artist Hans Williams, continuing his tradition of introspective songwriting, delving into themes of vulnerability and the complexities of emotional connection. “Hold My Love” explores the tension between self-preservation and the desire to be open with others. Lines like “If I get overwhelmed, I’m sure you’ll never know / Keep it to myself, all is well” reflect a struggle with internalizing emotions and the fear of burdening loved ones. This theme resonates with Williams’ broader discography, which often addresses mental health and the challenges of self-acceptance. We had the opportunity to talk to Hans Williams about his use of music as a tool for healing during our Steamboat Sound Check Podcast interview with him prior to his appearance at the REPS Night of Hope and Healing in 2024. As he continues to gain recognition for his heartfelt storytelling and genre-blending sound, this single further solidifies his place in the indie music landscape, which you will be able to see for yourself when he returns to Steamboat as part of the Night of Hope and Healing on October 5.
“Old Phone” – Ed Sheeran
Ed Sheeran’s “Old Phone” serves as the second single from his forthcoming eighth studio album, Play, slated for release on September 12. The song was inspired by a deeply personal experience during a 2023 copyright lawsuit concerning “Thinking Out Loud.” Sheeran was required to submit old devices, leading him to reactivate a phone he hadn’t used since 2015. Upon turning it on, he discovered a trove of messages and photos from his past, including communications with his late friend Jamal Edwards, former romantic partners, and estranged family members. This unexpected journey into his personal history prompted a wave of nostalgia and reflection, culminating in the creation of “Old Phone.” Sheeran candidly expressing the bittersweet nature of revisiting moments from his past. Lines such as “So full of love, yet so full of hate” encapsulate the complex emotions associated with nostalgia. “Old Phone” stands as a poignant exploration of the interplay between technology and memory, highlighting how a simple device can serve as a portal to our most cherished—and sometimes painful—moments.
“Mystical Magical” – Benson Boone
Benson Boone’s “Mystical Magical” serves as the second single from his forthcoming album American Heart, set to debut on June 20. “Mystical Magical” is a shimmering pop-rock composition that showcases Boone’s falsetto vocals and features an interpolation of Olivia Newton-John’s 1981 hit “Physical.” The song delves into the emotional turmoil of loving someone who sends mixed signals, capturing the tension between desire and uncertainty. As Boone embarks on his American Heart Tour, beginning August 22, 2025, “Mystical Magical” is poised to become a highlight of his live performances, reflecting his evolution as an artist and his ability to blend nostalgic influences with contemporary pop sensibilities. The tour will hit Ball Arena in Denver on September 22.
“Visions” – The Movement with Stick Figure
“Visions” is a heartfelt collaboration between reggae-rock stalwarts The Movement and Stick Figure. The track delves into themes of love, destiny, and the enduring bonds that guide us through life’s uncertainties. Frontman Josh Swain of The Movement reflects on sleepless nights filled with worry, ultimately leaning into faith in the journey and the strength of human connection. Swain paints vivid images of cherished moments, emphasizing that the memories we create continue to live within us. Scott Woodruff of Stick Figure contributes a verse that serves as a meditation on time and resilience. His lyrics, “We are the makers of our destinies,” underscore the song’s message about embracing the unknown and staying true to one’s path. Woodruff’s calm and steady delivery complements the track’s mellow groove, enhancing its introspective atmosphere. You can see Stick Figure in Denver with Stephen Marley and The Hip Abduction on June 10 a The Mission Ballroom and June 12 at Red Rocks.
“South of Here” – Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats
Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats’ fourth studio album, South of Here, released on June 28, 2024, but the title track has just now started to gain traction on Adult Album Alternative Charts. Staying in theme with the album, the song delves into more personal themes, exploring his struggles with anxiety, insecurity, and life experiences. Musically, South of Here blends soul and rock influences, delivering a song that is both introspective and uplifting. To support the album, the band extended their South of Here tour into 2025, adding a date in Denver at Empower Field with The Lumineers on August 2.
“Witness” – The Wood Brothers
The Wood Brothers’ latest single, “Witness” serves as the lead track from their forthcoming ninth studio album, Puff of Smoke, set to debut on August 1. This song exemplifies the band’s signature blend of Americana, folk, and blues, while introducing fresh sonic elements that reflect their evolving artistry. “Witness” opens the album with a vibrant infusion of New Orleans-style brass, signaling a dynamic shift in the band’s musical direction. The track features Chris Wood’s elastic double bass lines, Jano Rix’s powerful drumming and distorted piano, and Oliver Wood’s expressive guitar work and distinctive vocals. The lyrics delve into themes of mindfulness and detachment, emphasizing the importance of observing life’s experiences without becoming entangled in them. The Wood Brothers summer tour stops in Colorado three times, with the first being at the Dillon Amphitheatre on June 11 with St. Paul and the Broken Bones. They return the following month with a stop at Red Rocks on July 18 in support of The String Cheese Incident, and the following night in Paonia.
“Driving Backwards” – Bebe Stockwell & Chance Emerson
Bebe Stockwell’s “Driving Backwards,” featuring Chance Emerson, was released as the lead single from her debut EP of the same name, set to drop on May 9. The song showcases Stockwell’s signature blend of folk-inspired storytelling and organic instrumentation, enriched by Emerson’s complementary vocals and songwriting. The track is a heartfelt reflection on personal growth and the passage of time, with lyrics that evoke the warmth of cherished memories and the bittersweet nature of change. Stockwell’s raspy alto voice delivers lines like, “You turn to me and say, this house that we made, we closed and made the debt repaid,” painting vivid images of shared experiences and enduring bonds. The collaboration between Stockwell and Emerson brings a harmonious balance to the track, blending their distinct styles into a cohesive and resonant piece. Stockwell, a Boston native now based in New York, is a rising presence in the indie folk scene. While Emerson, who grew up between Hong Kong and Maine, brings a rich background to the collaboration.
“Call it Easy” – Racing Mount Pleasant
Racing Mount Pleasant’s latest single, “Call It Easy,” marks a significant evolution in their sound. Formerly known as Kingfisher, the Michigan-based band has rebranded and returned with a track that showcases their growth and artistic maturity. “Call It Easy” is a two-part release, featuring a 4:24 radio edit and a full 7-minute version. The song blends elements of alternative folk rock, chamber pop, and folktronica, creating a lush and immersive soundscape. Delving into themes of introspection and emotional vulnerability, the band invites listeners to reflect on their own experiences with this track. The band’s use of layered instrumentation and dynamic shifts contributes to the song’s emotional depth and resonance. Critics and fans alike have praised “Call It Easy” for its ambitious composition and heartfelt delivery.
“Sally, When The Wine Runs Out” – ROLE MODEL
Role Model’s “Sally, When the Wine Runs Out,” released on Valentine’s Day, as part of the deluxe edition of his sophomore album Kansas Anymore (The Longest Goodbye), has quickly become a standout track in his discography. The song blends upbeat, summery instrumentation with introspective lyrics, showcasing Role Model’s evolving artistry. Musically, the track features acoustic guitars, twangy electrics, a driving bass line, and a simple drum beat, drawing inspiration from ’70s pop and indie pop. This sonic backdrop complements the narrative of meeting a woman named Sally at a dive bar, symbolizing a turning point and a readiness to move on from past heartbreak. The bridge of the song gained viral attention on TikTok, contributing to the song’s rapid rise in popularity.
“Jupiter” – almost monday with Jordana
“Jupiter” by almost monday is a standout track from their debut album DIVE, released on September 25, 2024. The song showcases the band’s signature blend of indie pop and funk-infused rhythms, creating an upbeat and infectious sound. The lyrics employ cosmic imagery, with lines like “I know we got that cosmic vision / Like a rocket ship, we’re passing through,” conveying themes of youthful love and escapism. In January 2025, a new version of “Jupiter” featuring indie-pop artist Jordana was released as part of the deluxe edition of DIVE. Jordana’s dreamy vocals and additional verse add depth to the track, enhancing its ethereal quality. Critics have noted its summery vibe and the band’s ability to blend nostalgic elements with modern indie-pop production. If you’re willing to make the drive, you can see almost monday in Colorado Springs on October 11 at the Black Sheep.
Don’t miss these exciting new tracks and keep an ear out for more updates on upcoming concerts and events in Colorado. Whether you’re a fan of folk, indie-pop, bluegrass, or rock, there’s something for everyone to enjoy on the Steamboat Locals Choice for Music!
