feeling warm driving in bad weather - The new album by Byenow is a journey into a coral-colored sunset

Byenow return with feeling warm driving in bad weather, a collection of 12 art-folk snapshots that mark a significant artistic evolution, enriched by the production of Adele Altro (Any Other).

Lyrically, feeling warm driving in bad weather explores themes of healing, inner peace, and warmth, regardless of turbulence. The title itself encapsulates this journey, capturing the comforting glow that can guide us even through the toughest times.

Recorded between Turin and Milan with the essential contributions of Manuel Volpe (producer of Massimo Silverio) and Marco Giudici, the album represents a new chapter in the duo’s artistic path. If Byenow’s self-titled debut was deeply rooted in their duo format, this new work expands its sonic palette, introducing piano, bass, saxophone, and vibraphone—key elements in enriching the arrangements and adding depth to the compositions.

During the album’s creative process, the band worked closely with Adele Altro (Any Other), who played a pivotal role in broadening the project’s musical horizons. Her art-pop sensibilities blend seamlessly with Byenow’s indie-folk roots, creating an ethereal yet dynamic atmosphere that knows when to be dreamlike and when to hit with direct intensity.

From an instrumental standpoint, in addition to Adele, the album features three guest musicians: Ivo Cavallo on vibraphone (Jar Torg and Ivo), Stefano Calderano on electric guitar (Jar Torg and Somebody), Francesco Panconesi (also known for his work with Emma Nolde) on tenor saxophone (Are You In Love?, Somebody, Farewell Song and October). These twelve tracks move between introspection and bursts of energy, developing in cathartic waves of emotional crescendos.

A track-by-track journey

Right from the opening track, Are You In Love?, the album introduces a suspended, dreamy atmosphere, where two pianos engage in conversation—one recorded on cassette for a warm, lo-fi feel, the other crystal-clear and enveloping. Tower Song explores the theme of internal cages, built upon rich yet delicate guitar arpeggios, while October encapsulates the essence of the album, speaking of healing and transformation.

Tracks like Jar Torg and Ivo experiment with song structure, incorporating evocative instrumental passages, while Farewell Song and Run Away express a longing for reconciliation and freedom. Red Clay, the darkest and most mysterious moment on the album, unfolds like a dream turning in on itself, whereas Ivy moves slowly through twilight, opening up completely in the bridge to reveal the light.

Thunder Song tells a story of connection through loss, of presence despite distance. It’s the only track recorded live, preserving its fragile essence. How Are You? is a fleeting fragment, caught on the verge of a new beginning, conveyed musically through nocturnal synth and piano arpeggios.

The album closes with Somebody, a song that seals the emotional journey with the words “I’ll heal - I’m here”—a statement of presence and acceptance of the here and now, concluding the voyage on a note of serenity and inner balance.