The Mountain Goats have exciting news to share with their fans. They recently announced the release of their new album, titled “Jenny From Thebes.” Set to arrive on October 27 via Merge, this album serves as a sequel to their 2002 LP, “All Hail West Texas.” To give listeners a taste of what’s to come, the band has also released the lead single from the album, called “Clean Slate.”
In “Jenny From Thebes,” frontman John Darnielle describes it as a rock opera centered around a woman who decides to escape from a town burdened with her long-held responsibilities. The song “Clean Slate” sets the stage for the narrative, introducing Jenny’s rented house and the people who seek refuge there. Darnielle explains that the album explores Jenny’s journey of self-discovery, as she strives to redefine her identity beyond the roles she has been fulfilling.
The album was produced by Trina Shoemaker and recorded at the Church in Tulsa, Oklahoma. “Jenny From Thebes” features notable contributions, including guitar work by Alicia Bognanno from Bully, horn and string arrangements by Matt Douglas, and backing vocals by Kathy Valentine of the Go-Go’s and Matt Nathanson.
Following their 2022 album “Bleed Out,” which drew inspiration from action movies of the past decades, the Mountain Goats continue to deliver a unique musical experience. Describing the tracks on “Bleed Out” as energetic mini-action movies, Darnielle filled them with thrilling plots, memorable characters, daring heists, and high-speed getaways.
In addition to their musical endeavors, Darnielle made an appearance in the crime comedy film “Poker Face,” directed by Natasha Lyonne and Rian Johnson. He portrayed a guitarist in a one-hit-wonder rock band called Doxxxology, fronted by the character Ruby Ruin, played by Chloë Sevigny.
For more details on John Darnielle’s appearance in “Poker Face,” you can read the article titled “How John Darnielle Ended Up on TV’s Poker Face” on Pitch.
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The Mountain Goats: Jenny From Thebes
Price: $23 at Rough Trade
Tracklist for “Jenny From Thebes”:
- Clean Slate
- Ground Level
- Only One Way
- Fresh Tattoo
- Cleaning Crew
- Murder at the 18th St. Garage
- From the Nebraska Plant
- Same as Cash
- Water Tower
- Jenny III
- Going to Dallas
- Great Pirates
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about rock opera album
When will “Jenny From Thebes” by The Mountain Goats be released?
The album “Jenny From Thebes” by The Mountain Goats is set to be released on October 27.
What is the concept behind “Jenny From Thebes”?
“Jenny From Thebes” is a rock opera album that tells the story of a woman who purchases a motorcycle to escape from a burdensome town and embark on a journey of self-discovery.
Who produced the album?
The album was produced by Trina Shoemaker and recorded at the Church in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
Are there any notable collaborations or guest appearances on the album?
Yes, “Jenny From Thebes” features guitar work by Alicia Bognanno from Bully, horn and string arrangements by Matt Douglas, and backing vocals by Kathy Valentine of the Go-Go’s and Matt Nathanson.
Is this album a sequel to any previous release?
Yes, “Jenny From Thebes” serves as a sequel to The Mountain Goats’ 2002 LP “All Hail West Texas.”
Can you provide a sample of the album?
Yes, the lead single “Clean Slate” has been released ahead of the album. You can check it out to get a taste of what to expect from “Jenny From Thebes.”
Has John Darnielle been involved in any other projects recently?
Yes, John Darnielle made an appearance in the crime comedy film “Poker Face,” directed by Natasha Lyonne and Rian Johnson, where he portrayed a guitarist in a one-hit-wonder rock band called Doxxxology.
Where can I find more information about John Darnielle’s appearance in “Poker Face”?
For more details about John Darnielle’s involvement in “Poker Face,” you can read the article titled “How John Darnielle Ended Up on TV’s Poker Face” on Pitch.
More about rock opera album
- Merge Records – Official website of Merge Records, the label releasing “Jenny From Thebes” by The Mountain Goats.
- Pitch – Visit Pitch for the article “How John Darnielle Ended Up on TV’s Poker Face” providing more information about John Darnielle’s appearance in “Poker Face.”
- Rough Trade – Check out Rough Trade for more information on “Jenny From Thebes” by The Mountain Goats and to purchase the album.
- Natasha Lyonne – IMDb page of Natasha Lyonne, the director of the crime comedy film “Poker Face.”
- Rian Johnson – IMDb page of Rian Johnson, the director of the crime comedy film “Poker Face.”
2 comments
merge records always releases the best indie music and im excited theyre putting out the mountain goats’ new album. jenny from thebes sounds like itll have a unique sound with all the guest appearances. gonna be a must-listen for sure!
woah, had no idea john darnielle was in a movie! loved him in poker face, even tho his band name is a bit hard 2 pronounce lol. curious 2 see how his acting skills match his musical talent. gonna check out the article on pitch for more deets!