The Edge of the Atmosphere
Released October 23, 2020
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Tracks:
1. If I Can Help It
2. Home Plate
3. Tenfold
4. Make It Right
5. Hills of Arkansas
6. Forget the Weather
7. Done Today
8. Dovetail
9. Waterslide
10. Halfway
11. Chasing Stars
12. Lost in Love
About
An album of all original songs, featuring Lyle Brewer (guitar), Zach Hickman (bass), Sean Trischka & Dave Brophy (Drums). For this album, I turned my whole process upside down. Instead of identifying as a cellist who sings, I embraced the role of lead singer / songwriter, and treated the cello as an overdub. Instead of testing these songs out on the road for multiple tours before going into the studio with a clear sense of what they meant, I delayed the writing of these songs until 2 weeks before the sessions, so that the material would be fresh and unfinished when I brought it to the first band rehearsal. Lyrics were still being changed between takes in the studio. I respect the musicians on this project so immensely, so I wanted to see what they heard in the material, and let their personalties and instincts shape the treatment of these songs through a collective arranging process. In rehearsals, I actually didn’t play cello at all; I only sang. This left space for the band to fill, allowing them to drive the song where it needed to go. The cello parts were recorded last, giving me time to craft arrangements that embrace a more melodic role for the cello than I usually do in my songs. I’m excited about the conversation this creates with the singing, and I hope these songs make you feel as empowered and inspired as we felt playing them.
Reviews
“fantastic pop sensibilities …. a truly exciting blend of world-class classical musicianship, undeniable pop hooks a genuinely dazzling sense of musical collaboration.. Block is synthesizing the culmination of his experiences into one effortlessly catchy and impactful sound”
- American Songwriter, in the review titled “Mike Block Exemplifies True Musicianship On New Record”
"His most engaging, radio-friendly album to date. And the third single from that record, “The Hills of Arkansas,” has every ingredient of a crossover radio hit: an unforgettable song with strong hooks, emotionally compelling vocals and a tastefully spun fiddle break on cello that is sure to make Alison Krauss swoon. Mike Block proves himself as capable a pop singer as a cellist, and radio is bound to take notice."
- The Berkshire Edge