It’s crazy to think what a different world we’re in, when looking at the end of 2019 to now. I sat down with Van Darien in December 2019, before her gig at Hard 8 BBQ. She was in town for a string of small shows, getting prepped for the full tour that was planned with the release of “Levee”.
COVID-19 ended up canceling the tour, but the record release went full steam ahead. Having been a fan of Van Darien’s for quite some time, I knew that “Levee” was her best yet. Every song is given it’s moment, each well crafted and well thought out. As we talk about in the podcast, she had a rotating cast of musicians she was able to call on for this record, allowing each song to be an individual moment. Van’s voice is the common thread in each song, as well as Steven Cooper’s production.
The Songwriters
With her name on all but one of the songs on “Levee”, Van Darien showcased friends and her own songwriting heroes. She shared how each song came together, from an idea after watching ‘Game of Thrones’ with Maren Morris, to a collaboration with her dad and leaning on his expertise to lend authenticity. Even the one song she didn’t write was personal. Written by her producer (and boy friend) Steven Cooper, the song was inspired by their move to Nashville.
One of the other cool things about recording this episode late last year, was seeing an idea come to life. Van told me the idea she had for the video for the song “Twisted Metal” (co-write with Maren Morris). And, just a few weeks later that idea became a reality, check it out below:
Listen to “Levee”
One of my favorite things about vinyl making a comeback is artists straying from making the basic black LP. Van Darien has the record out on CD, but she also made a limited pressing on a gorgeous blue vinyl. I couldn’t resist ordering one to have in my collection, definitely recommend ordering one for yourself while they’re available. Click HERE to order “Levee”. And if you’ve ditched the physical realm of music, “Levee” is available on all digital outlets. You can listen on Apple Music below or download it from iTunes HERE.
And with so many artists stuck at home, unable to tour, buying their music and merch is keeping them going right now. Especially buying directly from the artist’s website, more than likely they are packing that box and putting it in the mail themselves, so you’re getting the ultimate fan service.
When the world opens back up and you’re ready for some live music, have Van Darien on your “must see” list so you can hear these songs live, visit VanDarien.com to see her upcoming tour dates.
Finally, subscribe to Conversation on the Record so you don’t miss a single episode. Podcast subscribers always get the new episode before I share the link anywhere else. Find it on Apple Podcast, Google Play, Spotify and now iHeartRadio.