The album cover for Empire State by Greg Copeland features a sepia-toned image viewed from inside a car. Through the windshield, a herd of cattle stands in the snow, partially obscured by a windshield wiper mid-swipe. The artist's name and album title are boldly displayed in black, all-caps text on beige bands at the top and bottom, respectively.

Greg Copeland’s Stark Songwriting on Empire State

Greg Copeland – Empire State (Franklin & Highland Recordings/Hemifrån/Paraply Records, 2024)

On Empire State, Greg Copeland weaves understated melodies with unflinching lyricism to examine difficult truths. Musically, he effectively uses a soulful mix of blues, American folk music, and country-rock.

A native of Southern California, Copeland is known for his plainspoken yet poetic songwriting. His music pairs emotional candor with subtle, finely crafted arrangements that reinforce his themes without overshadowing them. All songs are written by Greg Copeland.

Musicians: Greg Copeland on vocals, acoustic rhythm guitar; Greg Leisz: pedal steel, guitarmandolin, mandocello; Val McCallum on rubber bridge slide guitar, electric guitar; Tyler Chester on keyboards, bass, piano; Jay Bellerose on drums and percussion; Jennifer Condos on bass; and Sara Watkins on violin.

Author: Ryan Emmert

Share

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

7 + eleven =