Minnesota-based singer, songwriter, and guitarist Charlie Parr has just released a new song titled “Portland Avenue.” The song is the second single from his upcoming album, Little Sun, set to be released on March 22 by Smithsonian Folkways.
Parr’s music has always been known for its folksy, bluesy sound and touching lyrics that reflect on the world and people around him. In “Portland Avenue,” he touches on what it means to be a neighbor and how this concept has evolved. He asks listeners to consider how big their neighborhood is and whether we can have cyber-neighbors who lend support and care like we used to lend cups of sugar.
Watch “Portland Avenue” by Charlie Parr
Little Sun is Parr’s eighteenth album and his first not to be recorded entirely live. The album was produced by his close friend and collaborator Tucker Martine, who has worked with artists like Sufjan Stevens, The Decemberists, and My Morning Jacket. The album features highly acclaimed guitarist Marisa Anderson, background vocals from Anna Tivel, and other talented musicians.
Reflecting on the album, Parr says, “Here’s an album that was recorded live but in collaboration with producer Tucker Martine, who’s become a friend and trusted musical ally. You’ll hear what happened, so I don’t need to describe it to you, but I’m very grateful for the opportunity to work with this very talented group of musicians.”
Parr has been relentlessly touring worldwide for the past two decades, earning a reputation as an underground DIY legend. He will continue to tour this spring, with shows across the U.S., including Milwaukee, Chicago, Cambridge, New York, Washington D.C., Nashville, Denver, Seattle, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Minneapolis.
In addition to his music career, Parr also released his debut novel, Last of the Better Days Ahead, in the fall of 2022. The book has been praised for its touching portrayal of life in rural America.
Parr’s music and writing reflect his deep understanding of the human experience and his ability to connect with people through his art. With Little Sun, he continues to offer a clarifying work that reflects on the world and people around him and reminds us of the importance of community and connection.