Jeremy Ivey has long been one of Nashvilles most beloved behind-the-scenes musical magicians: as onetime member of Southern soul outfit Buffalo Clover; as a producer; occasional harmonica player in Margo Prices band and her frequent songwriting partner (yes, theyre also married); and low-key solo artist. Later this year, Ivey will finally release his debut solo record, produced by Price, via ANTI Records, with the first single, Story of a Fish, debuting today.
Set to a bit of slowly chugging Shes So Heavy-era guitar, Story of a Fish showcases Iveys meld of idiosyncratic folk-rock, more in line with the likes of Daniel Johnston than modern trad-country Americana. Telling the story of his upbringing through the story of a salmon, the Georgia-born Iveys lyrical approach is both narratively vibrant and heavily poetic. If you dont know where Ive been, he sings, then you dont know who I am, before launching into some of his signature harmonica riffs.
I want to prove that you can be in your 40s and be at the peak of your creativity, Ivey said in a statement. Not a has-been, but as an is-being.
ANTI Records has been making some interesting moves on the Nashville scene of late, also recently signing another local singer-songwriter, Darrin Bradbury, who is a friend and frequent gig-mate of Ivey. This will not be the first producing effort for Price, who is fast becoming as in-demand behind the console as she is on center stage: she recently produced a forthcoming project for Jessi Colter.
Iveys debut album will be released later this year.