Exclusive: “Head Rush,” The First Single From Upcoming Sam Rae LP

Brandi Carlile/The Highwomen Cellist Announces “Ten Thousand Years” Full-Length for August Release

Sam Rae, the soul behind some of the most recognizable cello parts in Americana, is a compelling artist in her own right, and it’s a solid bet that she’ll gain a bevy of new fans with her luminous third album “Ten Thousand Years,” slated for an August 7th release.

Take a listen to the first single, “Head Rush,” available exclusively on Country Queer for now, and on Apple Music starting on May 1.

The album was produced by Jacob James (Brandi Carlile, Harvey Danger, Damien Jurado), and recorded in Seattle at Hall of Justice. It’s a gorgeous and very personal collection of stories, weaving together improvisational cello, Americana inspirations and fresh sonic experimentation.

Asked about writing “Head Rush,” Rae said, “I wrote it between recording sessions. I had told my partner, Cat, that I wouldn’t be able to talk to her at all because I wanted to focus every ounce of my attention on the studio. Then I decided that, between my long absence and distancing, she deserved a song for her patience. ‘Head Rush’ is about this wedding we went to in my home town in Iowa. My best friend got married, and Cat and I got drunk and fiery and ended the night going home to my mom’s house separately. I insisted on walking home alone, wandering the streets in the rain with my shirt completely unbuttoned.”

With roots in improvised cello looping, Rae blends evocative songwriting with textured layers of cello, guitar providing a bed for her rich, contralto vocals. A seasoned performer in her own right, she has also lent her talents to artists like Brandi Carlile, Tanya Tucker, Sheryl Crow, Gregory Alan Isakov, The Highwomen, and Courtney Marie Andrews.

Watch for “Ten Thousand Years” on August 7th, available on all streaming services and from samraemusic.com.