StavesifiwascoverThe StavesJustin Vernon–produced Nonesuch debut, If I Was, is at radio now. The Staves, originally from Watford, England, are three sisters: Emily (vocals), Jessica (vocals, guitar), and Camilla (vocals, ukulele) Staveley-Taylor. The album was recorded in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, at Vernon‘s April Base Studios—a former veterinary clinic where he also recorded his 2012 self-titled Bon Iver album. The Staves released their first full-length album, 2012’s Dead & Born & Grown, to critical acclaim. The Telegraph, in its four-star review, noted that the “graceful melodies reveal a supple strength and modernity.” The trio has since spent much of the past three years touring the world, including opening spots with the Civil Wars, Mumford & Sons, and Bon Iver. It was during the Bon Iver dates that the sisters formed a bond with Vernon and his band and were invited to visit April Base’s relaxed, idyllic setting. “There was no plan to make a record there, or even demo anything; it was initially just to hang out and play some music with Justin,” notes Jessica. “There was no pressure at all, we didn’t even tell our label we were going.” But by the end of the sisters’ first visit to Wisconsin, it was evident that something significant was happening. In their new songs, The Staves examine their seemingly endless touring by imagining what they have left behind. “The amount of time we’ve spent away from home has affected all our relationships,” states Emily. “And I don’t just mean boyfriends, but relationships with family and close friends and wider groups of mates, who you just have to get used to never seeing. It can be difficult. Writing about it all is necessary therapy in making sense of quite an unconventional life.”

“I’ve made a lot of records now in my life and I have to say, making this one with them altered and changed me. Watching them go through that process and being more of a cultivator or sounding board gave me a unique perspective on a band crystallizing to true form.”
Justin Vernon (Bon Iver)

If I Was is an album about coming undone and all the possibilities that pass before your eyes while you’re unraveling…this entire record is essential listening.”- Stereogum

RIYL: Laura Marling, Bon Iver, First Aid Kit, Grizzly Bear, Angel Olsen, Bonnie Prince Billy, Iron & Wine 

Recommended Tracks: Track #5 “Black & White”, track #1 “Blood I Bled”, track #2 “Steady”, track #3 “No Me, No You, No More”, track #4 “Let Me Down”, track #10 “Teeth White”, track #7 “The Shining”, track #11 “Make It Holy”

Going for Adds 3/30 & 3/31 

FCC Caution: Track #6 says “d*mn”

Label: Nonesuch

Visit Their Office Website

Skip to toolbar