Life in Grooveland – The Hymnal (self-release, 2024)
Life in Grooveland‘s The Hymnal reimagines traditional hymns with dynamic, world music-influenced rhythms, creating an album that brings together spirituality and groove. Produced and arranged by Nashville session drummer and percussionist Justin Amaral, this fascinating instrumental collection features ten exquisitely crafted duets presenting some of Nashville’s most talented and inventive musicians, including Jeff Coffin (Dave Matthews Band, Béla Fleck), Fats Kaplin (Mitski, Jack White), Paul Niehaus (Lambchop), and Billy Contreras (Ricky Skaggs). Amaral’s versatile drumming, which ranges from subtle to explosive, provides the backbone for each track, layering rhythm to amplify each hymn.
Employing a “painting with layers” approach, Amaral tailors the rhythmic foundation of each hymn, allowing each instrumentalist the space to explore and expand upon these timeless melodies. The result is an album that feels both ancient and newly vibrant, inviting listeners to experience a spiritual journey through rhythm and harmony.
Since arriving in Nashville in 1999, Justin Amaral has built a reputation for versatility and skill, originally gaining recognition in the jam band scene. Highlights of his early career include a performance with Phish’s Mike Gordon and a feature in Modern Drummer’s “On The Move” column in 2004. In 2007, Amaral joined alt-country guit-steel legend Junior Brown, solidifying his role in the touring circuit. After years on the road, he transitioned to Nashville’s recording scene, becoming a first-call drummer for acclaimed artists like Paul Burch, Tim Carroll, and the late David Olney.
Amaral’s extensive recording and performing credits include collaborations with Jim Lauderdale, Laura Cantrell, and Jeff Coffin, as well as sessions in Nashville’s top studios like Blackbird and Creative Workshop. Whether performing live at iconic venues like The Bluebird Café and Exit/In or recording at the city’s most prestigious studios, Amaral continues to be a fundamental presence in Nashville’s music scene.
Musicians: Justin Amaral on drums and percussion; Billy Contreras on fiddle; Ilya Portnov on harmonicas and jaw harp; Jeff Coffin on flutes; Steve Dawson on Weissenborn (lap slide guitar); Fats Kaplin on sacred steel; Paul Niehaus on steel guitar; Charles Butler on banjo and electric banjo; Heather Moulder on keyboards; Dave Coleman on electric guitars; and Daniel Seymour on acoustic and electric bass.
Buy The Hymnal.
Author: Tyler Bennet
