White Denim Flex Restless Spirit On New Album ’13’ Out April 24

credit: Charlie Weinmann

White Denim’s dynamic new album, 13, arrives April 24 via Bella Union. “I’ve always wanted to make work that’s a reflection of my life experience,” says singer-guitarist and bandleader James Petralli. True to the restless, exploratory spirit that has defined the band since forming in Austin nearly two decades ago, 13 is charged with pointed reflections on power, generational cycles of abuse, shame, violence, and survival—while steadfastly affirming the importance of family and creative freedom.

Petralli’s ever-expanding musical appetite is on full display here, as 13 unfolds as a groove-heavy alchemy of rock, funk, dubby calypso, soul, down-and-dirty blues, and shimmering sunshine pop. That breadth is immediately apparent on the pungent funk-blues of lead single and album opener “(God Created) Lock And Key,” which kicks the record into motion with urgency and swagger.

The album features band members Michael Hunter (keyboards) and Matt Young (drums, percussion) as well as original drummer Josh Block. Block’s presence on 13 – alongside the likes of Owen Pallet (strings), Jesse Chandler (clarinet, sax, flute), Kosta Galanoupolis (bass, drums), and Dawes siblings Griffin and Taylor Goldsmith – highlights both the fluid nature of latter-day White Denim and Petralli’s determination to honour the band’s initial directive. “I wouldn’t call a project White Denim if it didn’t include significant contributions from another founding member of the group,” asserts Petralli. “‘12’ and ‘13’ both feature Josh and Steve in various capacities. I recorded and arranged these last two records for the most part, but I really don’t ever want to be alone. Music has given me a place and purpose in this world. And it’s been the primary way I’ve connected with other people over the years.”

Tour Dates – TICKETS

5/28: Las Vegas, NV @ Swan Dive

5/29: Wells, NV @ Schellraiser Presents: Humboldt Hideaway

5/31: Boulder, CO @ The Velvet Elk

6/2: First Collins, CO @ Washington’s

6/3: Denver, CO @ Marquis

6/5: Dallas, TX @ AM/FM

6/6: Austin, TX @ Mohawk (Outside)

13 tracklist:

1. (God Created) Lock and Key

2. Chew Nails

3. Only A Fool