James Yorkston drops latest single “Oh Light, Oh Light” featuring Johanna Söderberg

James Yorkston, the renowned Scottish singer-songwriter, has just released his latest single titled “Oh Light, Oh Light” featuring Johanna Söderberg. This single is part of his upcoming album, Songs for Nina and Johanna, making it his sixteenth album to be released by Domino Records on August 22.

Songs for Nina and Johanna is Yorkston’s third album recorded in Stockholm alongside members of The Second Hand Orchestra. Nina Persson from The Cardigans, who collaborated with James on his previous well-received album “The Great White Sea Eagle,” returns on this album to share vocals with Johanna Söderberg from First Aid Kit. The duo each contribute vocals to five and four tracks, respectively, on the album. Previously released singles “A Moment Longer” and “Love / Luck” have already set the tone for the album’s lyrical and musical direction.

The album Songs for Nina and Johanna is a contemplation on themes of family, love, and parenthood, conveyed through soothing melodies and poignant lyrics. Recorded live at Studio Rymden in Stockholm with co-producer Daniel Bengtson, the album features two of Sweden’s most distinctive female vocalists. In Yorkston’s words, the collaboration with Nina and Johanna was a chance he eagerly embraced. He aimed to create a space for them to interpret the songs without any interference.

During the recording sessions, Söderberg was carrying her second child, a moment that may have heightened the emotional depth of her performances. Despite the absence of Second Hand Orchestra leader Karl Jonas Winqvist due to illness, other members of the collective made significant contributions to the album. Notable musicians like Peter Morén, Ullis Gyllenberg, Lina Langendorf, and Lars Skoglund lent their talents to enhance the album’s sound.

Songs for Nina and Johanna is a deeply emotional and heartwarming album that showcases Yorkston’s maturity as an artist. With its sincere and soul-stirring compositions, the album has been described as one of Yorkston’s most authentic and life-affirming works. The collaboration with Nina and Johanna, along with the talented musicians involved, has brought a unique depth and richness to the album that fans are sure to appreciate.

If you are a fan of James Yorkston’s music, “Songs for Nina and Johanna” promises to be a touching addition to his discography. With its focus on intimate themes and powerful vocals, this album is set to captivate listeners and leave a lasting impression.