Though some may have taken his threats seriously when he sang “I’m Giving Up On Rock And Roll,” I’m pleased to announce that Christopher The Conquered is very much still grooving and shaking. Coupled with yesterday’s announcement of a new Gloom Balloon album was the amazing news that Chris Ford is releasing I Am Christopher on 9/25 (the two records, both on Grand Phony, come out the same day making this the best double release since I’m Wide Awake It’s Morning and Digital Ash In A Digital Urn).

Though his location has changed from Iowa to Colorado, Christopher still offers the same innate ability to compose and perform gorgeous melodies. In 2019 he offered up a collection of wonderful covers, but I’m happy to be receiving a new set of originals from such a sharp musical mind. His songwriting is influenced by everyone from Randy Newman and Tom Waits to Alicia Keys and Beyoncé (though the press release seems to -jokingly- reveal a contempt for Justin Timberlake, which makes me chuckle). You can feel the soulful tones in his voice as he delivers the lilting poetry.

It’s been a few years since I’m Giving Up On Rock and Roll, and I can’t wait to hear the new album! You can pre-order on Grand Phony starting August 7th.