North Carolina band Sluice releases new album “Companion” this week
Sluice, a band hailing from North Carolina, is set to release their latest album titled “Companion” this Friday. This third album from the group serves as a heartfelt testament to the significance of music as a constant companion throughout life’s ups and downs.
Lead singer Justin Morris vulnerably reflects on his past experiences, recalling a moment from his childhood where he questioned the loss of the joy he once felt. This introspective journey led him to step away from music for a period before rediscovering his passion for it on a new path.
Comprised of Morris, Oliver Child-Lanning, Avery Sullivan, and Libby Rodenbough, Sluice’s new album “Companion” is a transformational piece that marks their debut with Mtn Laurel Recording Co. after their 2023 release “Radial Gate”. The band’s history is intertwined with various musical projects, with Rodenbough’s solo work alongside her collaborations with the likes of folk quartet Mipso and the collective Weirs, which garnered critical acclaim from music enthusiasts.
The road to creating “Companion” was anything but straightforward for Morris. His move to New York in an effort to escape the music industry’s harsh realities led to disillusionment, compounded by a traumatic incident during a turbulent living situation in Bushwick. Turning to songwriting as a form of catharsis, Morris began to piece together the narrative that would become the album.
Recorded with producer Alli Rogers at Betty’s studio, “Companion” showcases Morris’s personal evolution and growth over the past two years. Drawing on experiences from his time on tour and dealing with the aftermath of the robbery he faced, the songs in the album highlight the transformative power of adversity and resilience in the face of challenging circumstances.
Despite delving into darker themes, “Companion” also navigates the lighter side of life and love, drawing inspiration from the expansive landscapes of country music. The album’s title track embodies the multifaceted nature of companionship, serving as a recurring motif throughout the record. From reflective tracks like “Unknowing,” a spiritual ode to faith and uncertainty, to the tender moments captured in songs like “Overhead,” Morris masterfully crafts a narrative that celebrates the beauty found in connection and shared experiences.
“Companion” is a testament to the power of human connection, encapsulating the struggles and triumphs that come with seeking companionship in its various forms. Releasing a third album such as this showcases Sluice’s dedication to their craft and their commitment to creating music that resonates deeply with listeners. The album promises to be a poignant and introspective journey that invites listeners to contemplate the significance of companionship and resilience in the face of life’s challenges.