Today heralds the highly anticipated release of the exquisitely crafted album, Can’t Stay Here, by the musical duo Smith & Tegio, now available on all major digital platforms. This collaborative masterpiece is a shining testament to the seamless musical synergy shared by lifelong friends and accomplished songwriting partners, Austin Smith and Mark Tegio.
Listen in here: https://open.spotify.com/album/59PlYjWPZiAxInR9poyGDa
The roots of the Smith & Tegio collaboration can be traced back to their formative years in San Diego, CA, where a shared love for both skateboarding and music served as the cornerstone of their enduring friendship. It was during this time that they were introduced to the influential works of singer-songwriters such as Townes Van Zandt, Blaze Foley, and Tom Waits, setting the stage for the artistic journey that lay ahead. However, it was only in later years that their collaborative efforts truly flourished, marking the commencement of a transformative odyssey as skilled guitarists and insightful lyricists.
Austin and Mark’s collective journey unfolds against the backdrop of their shared narrative, reflecting the profound impact of their early influences on their evolving musical expressions. The duo’s evolution as artists has been a testament to their dedication, marked by a commitment to artistic growth and a relentless pursuit of musical excellence.
As divergent paths unfolded in their early twenties, Austin pursued a music career in San Francisco while Mark prioritized music over academics in the same city. Throughout these formative years, their commitment to honing their craft remained steadfast. The so-called “woodshed years” were pivotal, serving as a period of intensive refinement for their fingerpicking guitar techniques and vocal styles. It was during this time that the unique synergy defining their musical partnership began to take shape and continues to characterize their work.
Upon Mark’s graduation, the duo wholeheartedly embraced their shared passion for music, resulting in the release of their debut album and subsequent tours across the western United States. Originally performing as a duo, they later expanded their lineup to include a band featuring pedal steel and stand-up bass, infusing a distinctive country flavor into their acoustic guitar-driven, lyrically rich folk songs.
Despite the physical distance that separates them – with Mark residing in Portland, OR, and Austin in Santa Cruz, CA – their dedication to touring and creating music together remains resolute. The eagerly awaited album, titled Can’t Stay Here is scheduled for release on December 8, 2023. As we anticipate the arrival of 2024, it is poised to be a monumental year for Smith and Tegio, and we eagerly await the continued growth and artistic evolution of this remarkable musical duo.
In Austin’s own words, the essence of their latest single “Second Hand” which sets the tone for the release lies in the exploration of immediate perspectives within the context of desperate circumstances. The track serves as a poignant encapsulation of fleeting moments that define the passing of time, allowing for the emergence of clarity by disrupting the static behavior of stillness. “Second Hand” is a percussive ring that expertly disrupts the silence, beckoning listeners into a contemplative space where the interplay of sound and emotion unfolds with graceful precision.
Can’t Stay Here, stands as a testament to their musical prowess and the foundation upon which their subsequent creative endeavors have been built. The album showcases their distinctive blend of acoustic and country influences, anchored by rich storytelling and evocative lyricism. Its release marked a significant milestone in their journey, garnering acclaim for its authenticity and the duo’s ability to create a musical narrative that resonates deeply with audiences.
As Can’t Stay Here makes its debut, it not only showcases the artistic prowess of Smith & Tegio but also serves as a compelling testament to their ability to create music that resonates deeply with audiences. The release is more than a mere composition; it is a sonic journey that invites listeners to explore the nuances of life’s transient moments, beautifully curated by two musicians whose creative alliance has yielded a work of profound beauty and emotional resonance.
The new album promises to be a continuation of their artistic exploration, offering listeners a glimpse into the evolving sound and narrative that defines Smith & Tegio. With each release, the duo reaffirms their commitment to pushing artistic boundaries and leaving an indelible mark on the musical landscape. In the coming year, we eagerly anticipate the unfolding chapters of their musical odyssey, poised to captivate audiences and solidify their status as a dynamic force within the folk and country music realms.
Smith & Tegio’s Can’t Stay Here is out via all streaming platforms today, December 8, 2023.
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