Alma Mater is the brainchild of two veteran musicians from the LA and Portland music scenes, Dirk Sullivan and Andrew Paul Woodworth. Sullivan, known for his time as a member of Love On Ice, once signed to Interscope Records, while Woodworth fronted Sony Records' Elephant Ride. The duo has spent the past two decades recording and touring in various projects, but when the pandemic hit, they found themselves seeking solace in music.
Holed up in Woodworth's garage, Sullivan stumbled upon a new tuning for his guitar, and the inspiration came pouring out of him. With Woodworth adding his signature pathos and melody, the two formed a powerful partnership, with Sullivan exploring themes of divorce and loss while Woodworth was on the cusp of welcoming his first child. Their contrasting life experiences brought out something raw, beautiful, sad, and explosive in their writing.
Both men wear their hearts on sleeves, and their vulnerability shines through in the music. The sound of Alma Mater is a portrait of combating themes, with tracks exploring the tension between time and eternity, strength and surrender, and hard love versus fake hate. With the legendary Gregg Williams in the producer's chair (known for his work with Sheryl Crow, The Dandy Warhols, Blitzen Trapper, Pete Droge, and Emmylou Harris), the recordings become orchestral and vibrant, full of page-turning narratives.
For these two Oregonians who have amassed decades of honest, soulful, and heartfelt music, Alma Mater is a dream team. The sound is explosive, raw, and personal, a testament to the power of music to heal and inspire. In a world full of temporary things, Alma Mater reminds us that we are a perpetual feeling, and their music will stay with you long after the final notes have faded away.
Alma Mater's latest album, The Beginning of Everything, is a 10-track masterpiece delving into the human experience. Produced by Williams, this album is a warm and rustic collection of songs with plush production that perfectly complements the band's earnest and candid writing style.
The Beginning of Everything features diverse musical styles and themes showcasing the band's versatility as songwriters and musicians. Musically, the album draws on various influences, including folk, rock, and Americana.
The instrumentation is rich and layered, mixing acoustic and electric guitars, pianos, drums, and more. The band's vocal harmonies are also a standout feature, adding depth and emotion to each track. Those familiar with the genre may hear hints of The Lumineers, Kitty Kondo, The Wonderlands, and Green Day.
The album explores various topics, from parenthood to loss to empathy. The album is personal, with lyrics that cut straight to the heart.
Alma Mater is unafraid to tackle difficult subjects and explore the darker corners of the human psyche. The band's irreverent writing style and wry humor bring fun to even the most serious topics, making the album emotionally resonant and endlessly entertaining.
The latest release from the band is nothing short of a sonic journey. The leading single, "Fading Moon," is a mesmerizing blend of poignant folk and indie pop. Woodworth, the frontman, bares his soul and shares his fears of leaving his two baby boys behind when he passes.
The lyrics may seem like a love letter to his children, but in reality, it's a way for him to deal with the anxiety that comes with the pure and intense love of being a parent. The hypnotic guitar riff, written by Sullivan during his mother's hospice care, is a testament to the healing power of music.
Their second single, "Mercy," is a heartfelt reminder to be kinder and more compassionate toward others. Woodoworth's expressive vocals and intricate acoustic guitars make this folk-pop anthem an instant classic. The band believes showing compassion and patience toward others is the ultimate way to experience true pride.
But don't let the melancholy themes fool you; "Big Sideways" is an electrifying tune that features driving guitars, upbeat percussion, and soaring melodies. The single talks about the need to control the unbalanced outside world, and the band does it with their signature style and energy.
The Beginning of Everything is a sonic masterpiece showcasing the band's exceptional production quality. The album boasts a rich and dynamic sound that's powerful and nuanced, thanks to the meticulous attention to detail by the production team.
The opening track draws listeners in from the album's lush and layered soundscapes. Each instrument has its own space, creating a spacious and immersive listening experience.
The drums are punchy and crisp, driving the rhythm forward with precision and power, while the bass adds depth and warmth to the overall sound. The guitars are a standout feature of the album, with their shimmering tones and intricate melodies.
The album is a testament to the power of music to heal and inspire, and Alma Mater's unique blend of folk, rock, and Americana is a refreshing addition to the contemporary music scene. With The Beginning of Everything, Alma Mater has cemented their place as one of the most exciting and innovative bands of our time.