Lawrence Rothman releases new album ‘Here Lies Love / Sawdust to Stardust’
Lawrence Rothman’s latest album, “Here Lies Love / Sawdust to Stardust,” is set for release on September 25, 2026, via KRO Records. The album, Rothman’s fifth studio album, is a significant step in their musical journey, delving deep into the Americana tradition. Rothman’s work on this album is highly personal, exploring themes of addiction, recovery, grief, identity, anxiety, lost love, and reinvention.
The album’s production took place in Biarritz, France, and Nashville, Tennessee, with Rothman overseeing the process entirely. Collaborations with artists like Madi Diaz, Amanda Shires, Katie Pruitt, Jason Isbell, and Jillian Jaqueline bring a diverse range of influences and experiences to the project. Rothman’s goal with this album is to redefine Americana not by genre conventions but by the authenticity, craftsmanship, and emotional depth of the songs.
In Rothman’s words, “‘Sawdust is what’s left after the work. Stardust is what remains when survival becomes meaning.’ After two decades as a singer, Rothman views their voice as an archaeological artifact, a testament to the many versions of themselves that have been buried over the years. This album is a reflection of the artist’s journey of self-discovery and reinvention.
The debut single from the album, “The Meaning,” is out now. Co-written with Madi Diaz, the song delves into themes of purpose, forgiveness, and self-discovery, questioning whether truth emerges from divine sources or from within ourselves. The music video for the track, directed by Floria Sigismondi, sets the stage for introspection, shot in the vast expanse of Joshua Tree, serving as a visual metaphor for contemplation and self-realization.
“Here Lies Love / Sawdust to Stardust” marks the culmination of a trilogy that began with “Good Morning, America” in 2021 and continued with “The Plow That Broke the Plains” in 2024. These albums, conceived as a continuous narrative, showcase Rothman’s growth and evolution as an artist, delving into their roots in Nashville and a collaborative effort with Lucinda Williams during the pandemic.
Lawrence Rothman’s creative journey has been shaped by their extensive work as a producer and collaborator, working with artists spanning various genres. The upcoming album is a testament to Rothman’s unique voice and vision, blending folk, rock, Americana, and experimental pop into a cohesive and emotionally resonant body of work.
With the release of “Here Lies Love / Sawdust to Stardust,” Lawrence Rothman continues to push the boundaries of their artistry, offering listeners a glimpse into their personal and musical growth. The album promises to be a rich and immersive experience, inviting audiences to explore themes of identity, transformation, and the enduring power of music to heal and inspire.