I have started a label with Kyle Matteson called Ten Atoms (follow us on Twitter). We are thrilled to be releasing a limited edition, 300 copy, 4-song vinyl EP from Conrad Plymouth. In this digital age why bother, right? I enjoy the portability of music as much as the next person. It’s convenient and easy, but has relegated art to background music on computer speakers. Music deserves more. It warrants the attention of holding a physical product in your hands, soaking up the great big album art, reading the lyrics and of course the physical act of turning it over to Side B.

The music of Conrad Plymouth cuts to the bone of what it feels like to call this part of the Midwest home. There are stories in these songs.

I remember the first time I met Christopher Porterfield. I remember where we sat and him sending me home with a CD of songs he’d recorded. I never told him, but I listened to that disc a lot. Then I heard him play a studio session 91.7 WMSE. They posted that session online and I’m not exaggerating when I say I’ve played it over a hundred times. “Fergus Falls” instantly became one of my favorite songs. I’m not talking about just a fleeting favorite either. I never tire of it. I still get chills when I hear it live. Over time each of the songs appearing on this special four song collection have become favorites.

I cannot think of anything more worthy of being the first release on our label.

Purchase: Conrad Plymouth 10″ Clear Vinyl (Limited Edition, 300 copies only)