In collaboration with Backline, Kitchen Dwellers have shared their first single of 2021, “Stand At Ease”. The October 8th release served as deliberate recognition of World Mental Health Day on October 10th.
Inspired by the tragic suicides of a personal hero and a close collaborator with the Montana-based galaxy grass quartet, “Stand At Ease” hears the band address suicide head on. Members Shawn Swain (Mandolin), Torrin Daniels (banjo), Joe Funk (upright bass), and Max Davies (acoustic guitar) composed the effort in order to heal from their loss and also to remind the listener, “You’re not alone.”
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Kitchen Dwellers worked on the song over the past year and recorded it during the 2021 sessions for their third full-length album with the help of producer Cory Wong.
“The main thing we want to do is raise awareness and create engagement with people who are struggling, but also encourage those who aren’t struggling to support the community,” said Funk in a press release. “It’s a big issue in the music industry. Road life escalates any mental health issue present in someone’s life, so we’re trying to talk about it.”
“Initially, I wanted to write it from the perspective of kids who lost their parents to suicide,” Funk continued. “It’s a reminder there are people who love you and you probably have no idea. The song portrays you’re not alone. You can reach out. Personally, it’s the song I’m most proud of. I really want it to do good in the world.”
Funk then finished with one final sentiment: “Whether you’re struggling with depression, anxiety, or substance abuse, maybe the song can trigger a happy thought or urge you to reach out to a friend, organization, or even lift yourself up. Maybe we can uplift even one person with this.”
Check out the latest Kitchen Dwellers release, “Stand At Ease”, below and click here for additional listening options. The band is currently amidst a fall tour that sees them playing shows across the country. Up next for the quartet is a show at The Charleston Pour House in Charleston, SC (10/14), ahead of stops in Atlanta, GA (10/15); Nashville, TN (10/16); Asheville, NC (10/21); and more. Scroll down for a full list of upcoming tour dates and head here for tickets and more information.
Kitchen Dwellers – “Stand At Ease”
[Video: Various Artists – Topic]