EMAIL NEWSLETTER SIGNUPSign up to receive email updates about Rachel McCartney >>
ABOUT NEW DAYS NIGHTLY
Rachel McCartney spent long sessions in the Boston underground to write these songs. Between the screeching of the arriving train and the distant rumble of the next approaching, McCartney explored her voice and songs in the context of the MBTA Red Line's Harvard, Porter and Davis Square subway stations and the hustle and bustle of commuters making their way. These travelers became McCartney's above ground audiences in local clubs, theaters, coffeehouses and listening rooms.
Rachel McCartney's new release "New Days Nightly" is an EP collection of 5 songs, all with one-word names, that explore the essential elements according to McCartney. Recorded at Woolly Mammoth in Waltham MA, these are McCartney's first recordings since "Interim" in 2002, but not a minute has passed on her craft. Produced by David Minehan (one of the original architects of the Boston Grunge/Rock sound, well-known lead guitarist and Rock producer). David was chosen specifically to capture McCartney's raw power, vulnerability, indie vibe, and killer voice.
The song "Butterflies" presents a search for grace and simplicity. "Butterflies hatch from squiggly little fuzzy worms, and in their new form flutter around gracefully in the spring. Butterflies are also the 'thrill' seekers payoff. The adrenaline rush only lasts so long, and one is left to sit with the seemingly mundane for a while. This song is my attempt at doing that."
The song "Fire" explores the idea of walking the straight and narrow of extreme ideology. Some people find this path most liberating when coming to terms with "the great unknown." Many religions hinge on a very specific and focused set of ideals and historical "facts" or stories. About this song, McCartney says, "I grew up in a somewhat religious household, but always felt a certain 'spiritual freedom' to explore myself in the context of the greater mystery."
TRACK LISTING
1. Butterflies
2. Fire
3. Gracefully
4. Lightly
5. Train
BIORachel McCartney has toured U.S. blues/folk venues since 1994 — gracing audiences from Boston to Atlanta and back again.
Aside from busking in the Boston subways, McCartney's favorite stages over the years have included the Somerville Theatre, Lizard Lounge, Kendall Cafe and historic Club Passim in the Boston area, The Bitter End, The Back Fence and The Living Room in New York, Eddie's Attic in Atlanta, The Quiet Storm and The Club Cafe in Pittsburgh, and the Tin Angel in Philadelphia.
At Passim, McCartney's opened for well known artists such as Ellis Paul and Willy Porter, and has been featured in the Passim Campfire festivals.
Before returning to her home town of Gloucester in 2001, McCartney lived in Pittsburgh, and was a local favorite at PGH venues, opening shows for Patty Griffin, Shawn Colvin, David Gray, Susan Werner, John Gorka and Christine Lavin. Her solo billing has repeatedly filled popular venues including The Quiet Storm and The Club Cafe and her Pennsylvania following continues to grow.
Songs from McCartney's album Eye On the Horizon (2001) are featured in Who Knew Productions' award-winning independent film The Bread, My Sweet. Her back up vocals and banjo can also be heard on Brian Webb's album entitled Broken Folk released in June 2002. Her backup vocals are also heard on Ellis Paul's record.
McCartney's raw, soaring voice is unmistakable, and her presence strongly felt. Respected among her peers, McCartney enjoys collaborating with other accomplished artists. Some of her favorite musical influences are also her friends. You might catch her gigging with the likes of Rose Polenzani, Anne Heaton, Brian Webb, Teddy Goldstein, Edie Carey, Meg Hutchinson and Pamela Means. She's also opened for Peter Mulvey and Melissa Ferrick.
