For 19 years of my adult life, I’ve released an album every year. Recording albums for me has never really been about making some great musical collection for others. I do it just to document the sounds and songs that came to me over the course of the year.
And also because I’m compulsive and hyper aware of my mortality. But that goes without saying now.
Anyway, in 2024, I chose not to release my songs. And now 2025 is ending, and I still haven’t released them. They’ve just built up silently in my notebooks.
It feels weird. I’m impatient.
But I’m also taking my time on this new album, and—rather than just get the songs out there—I’d like to get them out there in the way that is best for the songs. Sometimes, I just want to have the process over. But every time I go back into the studio, John Abbey (my producer and friend) and I have a new idea that makes the songs better, and we allow ourselves to roll with it. We had a day in the studio together on Friday, and I love the direction we went. Thank heavens we didn’t wrap this project in 2024.
And Reader, I can’t tell you how many times I’ve said in my life “thank heavens things didn’t go the way I wanted them to.” But it’s a lot. As the year winds down, let’s continue to trust in timing. The on-line world tempts us to be impulsive with our feelings and judgements and actions. But I’m trying to stay collected and clear-headed as we head into 2026. We need our wits about us, Reader. Not just for ourselves, but for others too. Wishing you calm and focus and deep joy on Christmas this week and throughout the holiday season. See you next Monday. -Em
