Hear Shovels & Rope Rock Out to “Birmingham” and More on This Day in 2012
Photo by Todd Cooper Music Features Shovels & Rope
Duos and Americana go together like salt and pepper.
From June and Johnny Cash to Buddy and Julie Miller, the history of couples singing roots, country and blues together runs deep. One of the best modern examples of that structure is Shovels & Rope, the rock ‘n’ roll duo made up of Cary Ann Hearst and Michael Trent. The couple have not only created more than five studio albums together, but also two children, a music festival and, now, a movie. They like to keep busy, and they consistently sell out venues big and small.
Today (July 31) is the day Shovels & Rope recorded their second Daytrotter session—a long one at seven songs, including their hit “Birmingham,” from their 2012 sophomore album O’ Be Joyful. Revisit their first one from 2011 here.
“They must be each other’s favorite drinking buddy,” Daytrotter’s Sean Moeller wrote in 2012. Seven years later, we can’t confirm or disaffirm that speculation. But based on their roaring live shows, jumpin’ studio albums and ability to maintain both a romantic and business partnership, I wouldn’t argue with it.
Hear Shovels & Rope’s 2012 Daytrotter session below. Find all the band’s upcoming tour dates right here.