Gary Louris is on a mission to prove that a person in their 70s can still produce some of their best work. That’s indeed rare. But so is keeping a band together for 40 years, being credited as pioneer of Americana music, touring with Johnny Cash … the list goes on for Louris and his iconic Minnesota band, The Jayhawks.
The Local Show’s September Artist of the Month performed three songs in-studio from their 12th album “Sanctuary Park”. Producer Bob Ezrin (Pink Floyd, Alice Cooper, Peter Gabriel) volunteered to record the LP after Louris called to catch up with the Canadian legend after he renounced his American citizenship, citing his disgruntlement with the country’s extreme political division.
“Sanctuary Park”, named after the location in Dundas, Ontario, comes with Louris’ perspective of being an American now living in Canada. In this interview, we talked with the artist about his unique viewpoint, as well as the love that inspired much of the writing and storytelling in The Jayhawks’ new music.
00:00:00 Keeping Our Heads Above Water 00:04:08 Mr. Lincoln 00:07:20 American Midnight 00:11:59 Gary Louris interview with The Local Show host Diane Musicians
Gary Louris –vocals, guitar Karen Grotberg –piano, vocals Marc Perlman –bass Tim O’Reagan – drums, vocals (including lead vocals on “Mr. Lincoln”)
The Fat Angel Sings 