The North Sound: A Journey of Love and Storytelling in ‘What It Takes’

Celebrating Indigenous Heritage

Coming from the wide prairies of Treaty 6 and 7 Territory, The North Sound comprises Forrest and Nevada Eaglespeaker, bringing with them a glorious celebration of love and raw storytelling in their new album, ‘What It Takes’.

You can stream and download ‘What It Takes’ here.

Musical Fusion of Folk and Americana

Indigenous folk rhythms blend seamlessly with Americana vibes in ‘What It Takes,’ offering an unflinching and honest examination of the duo’s shared experiences in both life and music. The opening track, ‘Til The Love Runs Out,’ carries an indigenous essence from the very beginning, while the second track, ‘Hard Way, Easy Livin’, showcases a clear influence from country legend Dwight Yoakam and his signature shuffle sound. This particular song was inspired during a hot summer road trip taken in 2023, where the couple traveled with their two young children and Forrest’s brother, Jaden. The journey included festival performances, playground visits, swimming holes, and even a hospital stop, all set against the backdrop of scorching heat and long hours on the road. A friend’s casual comment backstage on a particularly sweltering day—“this sure is a hard way to make an easy living”—sparked the inspiration for this catchy tune.

Crafting Life Through Music

‘What It Takes’ began its journey four years ago, filled with the life experiences and memories of Forrest and Nevada. The lyrics, penned by Forrest, are elevated by Nevada’s captivating vocals, creating a rich tapestry of sound and emotion.

Roots and Resilience

The North Sound was formed in 2014, with their musical identity deeply rooted in Forrest’s Blackfoot heritage. With an open and vulnerable approach, they tackle themes of inter-generational trauma while inviting listeners to join in the celebration, forging a lasting connection between artist and audience. This connection not only resonates with listeners but also promotes healing and understanding.

Latest Album Release

Released on May 23, the ten-track album is available via Nashville’s independent Indigenous label, New Sun Music. The duo narrates their lived experiences throughout the album, particularly highlighted in the track ‘Hard Way, Easy Livin’, which is complemented by a striking music video, shown below.

Connect with The North Sound

To learn more about The North Sound and their music, follow them online on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, Spotify, and Apple Music.

Conclusion

The North Sound’s ‘What It Takes’ is more than just an album; it is a heartfelt journey through love, resilience, and the power of storytelling. With their rich Indigenous roots and commitment to authenticity, Forrest and Nevada Eaglespeaker invite listeners to connect with their experiences, making music that resonates on a deeply personal level.

FAQs

What is the main theme of ‘What It Takes’?

The album explores the highs and lows of life and music, focusing on the couple’s shared experiences and emotional journey.

When was ‘What It Takes’ released?

The album was released on May 23 of this year.

Who are the members of The North Sound?

The North Sound is comprised of Forrest and Nevada Eaglespeaker.

Where can I listen to ‘What It Takes’?

You can stream and download the album on platforms like Spotify and Apple Music.

What influences The North Sound’s music?

Their music is influenced by Indigenous folk rhythms and Americana sounds, deeply rooted in Forrest’s Blackfoot heritage.