Acclaimed singer/songwriter/multi-instrumentalist Dylan LeBlanc performs at Songbyrd Music House on Tuesday, Jan. 23.
LeBlanc is touring in support of Coyote, his new cinematic folk rock concept album that has received praise from American Songwriter, No Depression, Far Out, PopMatters, and more since its Oct. 20 release on ATO Records.
Coyote is a throwback to the days of old-school outlaws. Both a semi-autobiographical and a concept album, the album tells the story of Coyote, a demon-haunted man on the run who lives a dangerous life and is always on the edge. Coyote finds himself caught up in the criminal underworld of Mexico and struggles to find a way out of this treacherous lifestyle. He is tormented by his past, enduring the pain and regret of lost love and a life wasted. Working his way toward redemption and freedom, Coyote is confronted by the essence of human nature, materialism, and the inherent desire for more. As the story reaches its peak, Coyote is at a perilous crossroads, leaving listeners in suspense about his fate.
The album begins with the strings-heavy title track, setting the stage for Coyote’s journey across the Mexican border to the drug cartels. On “Closin’ In,” he begins reflecting on his choices and those he left behind. Leaning into “Dark Waters,” Coyote dreams his way out of his criminal lifestyle, while referencing his childhood trauma that led him there. “Stranger Things” finds our protagonist with his love from “No Promises Broken,” assuring him things will all work out; however, Coyote’s past leaves him distrustful. The album continues Coyote’s journey, through prison, escape, and the ultimate decision.
Watch Dylan LeBlanc perform “No Promises Broken” for Fame Studios on YouTube:
LeBlanc’s musical journey began in Muscle Shoals, Alabama, where his musician father James LeBlanc recorded, performed, and made a living. Those roots had a hand in the creation of LeBlanc’s fifth studio album, which was recorded at Fame Recording Studios in Muscle Shoals and features father James as the mixer and on guitar, keys, bass, and background vocals on many songs.
Coyote is LeBlanc’s first self-produced release, boasting a cherry-picked lineup of what he calls “killer session players,” such as drummer Fred Eltringham (Ringo Starr, Sheryl Crow), pianist Jim “Moose” Brown (Bob Seger), and bass player Seth Kaufman (Lana Del Rey). Coyote is the follow-up to LeBlanc’s 2019 record Renegade, an album that was well received by the press with positive coverage that included Rolling Stone Country, American Songwriter, No Depression, and more.
Dylan LeBlanc
Songbyrd Music House
Tuesday, Jan. 23
Doros @ 7pm
$25.75
All ages