While we’re all still waiting for Sufjan Stevens ‘50 States Project’ to wrap itself up, the Detroit singer and multi-instrumentalist has kept himself busy with side projects, helping the label Asthmatic Kitty and recently release the BQE, which, according to sources is “symphonic and cinematic exploration of New York City’s infamous Brooklyn-Queens Expressway”. A strange exercise no doubt but it nonetheless captures the child-like wonderment and harmonious beauty so characteristic of Stevens’ work, and while it’s no “Come on Feel the Lone Star State” it’ll tide us over until then.

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A lot is happening in the world of our favorite local neo-classical group Balmorhea. For starters, according to singer/guitarist Michael Muller, the band, once a duo, then a foursome, is now a sextet. Also, not only is the band planning an upcoming tour with the excellent local experimental artist Bexar Bexar and Seattle’s Tiny Vipers (a fantastic solo artist we featured here), but is also recording a new album. Good snap that’s a lot to digest! The tour begins August 5th and swings up through Marfa, Texas before going out West (where the wind blows tall!). They have at least six dates with Tiny Vipers along the West Coast so you know we’ll be keeping an eye on the group as they travel. Good luck guys! Here are some pictures from their recent show at Mohawk.

Balmorhea – “The Summer”