Softly, Dear is in the midst of creating their debut full-length album following the critically acclaimed self-release of their first EP, Portico. The album is preceded by the release of the single “Things I Say,” which was recorded and mixed by Evan Middlesworth and mastered by Grammy award-winning engineer Brian Joseph. “Things I Say” was also featured on a live session at Daytrotter released in January.
Surrounding the Daytrotter session was a short tour through the Midwest, which
Softly, Dear is in the midst of creating their debut full-length album following the critically acclaimed self-release of their first EP, Portico. The album is preceded by the release of the single “Things I Say,” which was recorded and mixed by Evan Middlesworth and mastered by Grammy award-winning engineer Brian Joseph. “Things I Say” was also featured on a live session at Daytrotter released in January.
Surrounding the Daytrotter session was a short tour through the Midwest, which included loud basement shows and staple local music venues in Madison and Milwaukee. This trip was one of many for the band, who have traveled the country extensively in a van to music festivals and beachside campsites in addition to living together in an Eau Claire house. This house has become an important basement venue in the Eau Claire music scene, hosting multiple shows per month for both local and touring musicians.
Softly, Dear’s previous EP, Portico, which featured the track “Better Times,” received international exposure and heavy airplay at Milwaukee’s 88.9 FM. Madison record label Mine All Mine Records re-released the EP in the form of a cassette tape. The band was voted Best New Artist in the Chippewa Valley by Volume One magazine, and has been featured in a number of national and international blogs. Softly, Dear values the DIY ethos and takes pride in their ability to self-release albums and merchandise. Collaborative artwork, hand screen printed t-shirts, and hand-painted CDs exemplify the hard work and dedication of this quickly rising band. Their upcoming album is sure to showcase their coming-of-age as a group.
