Four days ago my pal Jill Strominger at New Amsterdam Records sent me Finnegan Shanahan’s new album, The Two Halves. She knew I would love and it she was right. I am fascinated by the fact that it is inspired by a map, and in love with the spirit and buoyancy of the music in this song cycle. The album is described as “part travelogue and part song cycle” and was commissioned and recorded by Contemporaneous, a 21 musician ensemble whose mission is “to bring to life the music of now.” There’s so much more to say about this album — the journey Finnegan Shanahan takes us from the Hudson Valley to outer space, or the 18 pieces of corresponding artwork by illustrator Render Stetson — but I think that is best left for Finnegan’s explanation on the podcast. Give it a listen! In other news, my beloved Drip service is back in action! It was supposed to shut its doors today, but has now partnered with Kickstarter. I’m thrilled. If you like this podcast, my Drip page is a perfect place for you to lend some financial support and score some bonus materials. I’ll be doing a free, public work in progress reading of my The Animal Show on April 28th. It’ll be raw and delicious and in the loft at historic Judson Memorial Church. Here are all the details. Finally, stop by my Instagram page for a chance to win a signed copy of Finnegan’s CD, The Two Halves. You’ve got till Monday to enter. Get on it! Thanks for listening, and if you like what you hear please tell a friend. Music:The Two HalvesThe Azimuth If you’re in New York City, meet me at the Finnegan Shanahan’s album release show at National Sawdust! Click here for details.