Folk Troubadour James Robert Kibby Branches Into Synthetic Sounds on New Album Produced By Evan Anstey — “Center of the Universe”
James Robert Kibby’s poetic lyricism is rooted in a love for the bluegrass and old-time music heroes of yesteryear, as well as a deep devotion to the stories of the good book. On Tuesday, January 16, he’ll release his sophomore solo album, Center of the Universe.
A multi-instrumentalist, Kibby lays into banjo, harmonica, 12-string guitar and even a little keyboard on his upcoming 7-song release. Here is the track list:
1. Half A Man
2. Devices & Desires
3. Let It Be So
4. Center of the Universe
5. Gladly Give
6. Hangman’s Rope
7. Moment Now
Evan Anstey, a frequent collaborator of Kibby’s, served as the album’s producer, as well as a session musician on violin, mandolin, harmonies, keyboards, bass, electric guitar and percussion.
“Jim’s songwriting is an inspiration to me, and I’m proud and honored to work alongside him in as many settings as we’ve been in over the years,” Anstey said.
“[He] took these songs to new heights, and they all fit together in beautiful ways,” Kibby said, speaking on Anstey’s production work.
Following his time as lead vocalist of Buffalo-based Christian rock group Immanuel, Kibby’s full-length debut as a solo artist, One Man Garage Band, arrived on CD and streaming services in 2017. Although OMGB made reference to Kibby’s intricate study and reflections on the word of God, his 2019 EP Flesh & Bone shouted an even stronger proclamation of faith. The following year, Kibby and Anstey released a duo album called The Weekend Preacher, the first in a planned series of songs inspired by their passion for journalism and the stories of the 716.
Center of the Universe was recorded in Anstey’s home studio in rural Western New York. Across the tracks, Kibby’s ever-evolving sound went for some liberties into realms of synthesizers and electronic drums, but his signature banjo and Anstey’s violin ring true to a man inspired by the likes of Doc Watson, The Avett Brothers, Neil Young and Gillian Welch.
Look for Center of the Universe on all major streaming services, including Spotify and Apple Music, on January 16th, 2024.
(July 2023/L-R: Ernie “E.C.” Palmer, James Robert Kibby, Evan Anstey and Ian DeHaas performing in Middleport, NY as “Evan Anstey & His Band.” Photo: Scott Knox Photography)