Musician from Cumberland Releases New Album Encouraging to Live in the Present
Cumberland artist Kurt Gundersen has recently unveiled his second album, “Midnight Cove,” featuring a compilation of folk rock tunes that delve into the importance of living in the present moment. Gundersen’s music reflects a contemplation of modern society’s struggle with distractions and the challenge of truly paying attention amidst a sea of technological advancements.
The album consists of 10 tracks, including “Endless Tomorrows” and “This Petty Pace,” which depart from conventional song structures by ending unexpectedly, encouraging listeners to be fully present and engaged in the music. Gundersen’s intention with this album is to convey the message of cherishing time and being mindful of how we spend it in a world that is constantly pulling our focus elsewhere.
Gundersen acknowledges the pervasive nature of this theme in today’s culture, recognizing that the concept of being present has become somewhat of a cliché. However, through his music, he hopes to offer a unique perspective and invite his audience to explore the question of how to tune into the current moment and appreciate it fully.
Having released his debut album in 2019, Gundersen is no newcomer to the music scene. Drawing inspiration from iconic artists like REM, the Beatles, and Bob Dylan, his music showcases a blend of influences that have shaped his songwriting style. Despite having taken some time away from music, Gundersen was drawn back to it in recent years, feeling a sense of urgency to pursue his passion and share his compositions with the world.
While the process of creating music independently can be daunting, especially without the backing of a major record label, Gundersen took the opportunity to work on his sophomore album, “Midnight Cove,” in collaboration with a producer in Nashville. Despite facing logistical challenges due to the distance between them, Gundersen was determined to convey his message and refine his craft in this latest release.
Reflecting on his decision to revisit music later in life, Gundersen emphasizes the importance of seizing the moment and acknowledging the limited nature of time. His return to songwriting and recording music serves as a personal reminder to savor the present and appreciate the small moments often overlooked in the rush of daily life. Through his music, Gundersen hopes to inspire others to slow down, be present, and find joy in the simple pleasures of everyday existence.
As he continues to navigate his dual roles as a musician and recruiter in Cumberland, Gundersen remains committed to sharing his music as a means of self-expression and reflection. Through his thoughtful lyrics and introspective melodies, Gundersen invites listeners on a journey of self-discovery and contemplation, urging them to embrace the present moment and relish in the beauty of the here and now.