It’s been almost a month since the last time I posted anything here, and now that I’m back we’re right where we left off. Derek Nelson‘s single “U.R.Y.” came out September 20th and last night he played the release show for his new album Richer Soil. I was lucky enough to be in attendance and take some photos.

Billed as a solo show, the concert was as much a collaboration as any of his previous performances. His bandmates from Martin Van Ruin slowly joined him on stage for various songs during the first set of songs. After a break they all came back and remained together for the duration. The only new performer was Nelson’s wife Lauren, who provided keys on a couple tunes. It was their first time performing in front of an audience together, so I was glad to witness that.

The songs on the new album, which he mostly stuck to for the release show, are beautifully written and heartfelt. He talked about writing songs in the middle of the night while his children were fussing and how Richer Soil came together much different than his other records. There are universal themes of love and hard times and the fears of being a new parent…and yet it all takes on a fresh sound through the filter of Nelson’s words.

You can pick up the album now on CD or stream it. He’s planning an eventual vinyl release at some point, but the date is TBD.