Newbridge Chronicles Love, Longing, and the Maritimer’s Journey on New Album Past Lives

Listen to Past Lives featuring “Iroquois” HERE.

Halifax-based rock and Americana group Newbridge has unveiled Past Lives, a collection of songs that delve into the depths of storytelling, with immersive soundscapes that take the listener on a journey through both personal and collective histories. The album’s centerpiece, “Iroquois,” captures the essence of the entire project—an emotionally driven, folk-infused country-Americana anthem that embodies themes of longing, love, and the inner conflict between the two.

The songs on Past Lives navigate the internal landscape of the seeker—those caught between a desire for adventure and the pull of a place they can call home. It explores the dichotomy between love and the urge to explore, a journey familiar to many who have set out in search of something more. Drawing from the rich folk traditions of the Maritimes, vocalist and guitarist Keith Maddison’s songwriting echoes the maritime history of his ancestors—an era where departure was often inevitable, but the certainty of return was never guaranteed. This duality of freedom and sacrifice becomes the narrative backbone of the record, especially on tracks like “Iroquois.”

“Iroquois” is a deeply personal reflection on the immigrant experience, particularly that of Maritimers who, driven by necessity, leave behind their homes, traditions, and communities in search of work. It reflects a universal theme—the feeling of being pulled between two worlds. This pull is made even more poignant in the song’s reflection of the small town of Iroquois, Ontario, where Maddison spent a transformative summer. The song speaks to the deep, often unspoken bond that people feel for their homeland, even when circumstances take them far from it. The yearning to belong, to find community in unfamiliar places, and the quest to reconcile this desire with the experience of being away from home is the crux of the song.

Musically, “Iroquois” draws on a soundscape reminiscent of classic albums like Neil Young’s Harvest and The Band’s self-titled record. Its warm, earthy tones and spacious arrangements were crafted in Nashville, where Newbridge fully embraced the timeless, heartfelt sound of Americana. The track features the hauntingly beautiful harmonies of Shannon McNally, whose voice adds a layer of soulful nostalgia, deepening the track’s roots in both Americana and Canadiana. McNally’s vocals help elevate “Iroquois,” making it not only a story of longing but a reflection on the connections that are made along the way—connections that transcend geography and time.

Newbridge’s distinctive sound is a testament to the band’s commitment to crafting music that not only enhances the storytelling but also makes a lasting impression. Their music has a depth and urgency that cuts through the noise, creating a sound that is both rich and memorable. This was reflected in a recent quote from Carson Illidge, Music Supervisor at Rogers Sportsnet, who praised the band's ability to craft songs that stand out in broadcasts, commenting, “Newbridge has a sound that is well-crafted, dynamic, and memorable. Their music enhances the storytelling, has an urgent sound that cuts through the mix and enhances our broadcasts.”

From the beginning, Past Lives has been a project that blends respect for tradition with a desire to innovate. The album was recorded at the Creative Workshops Studio in Nashville, a historic space that has hosted many legendary artists. Here, Newbridge was able to honor the musical icons that came before them while creating a sound that is distinctly their own. The band’s collaboration with an impressive roster of session musicians further enriches the album’s texture. In addition to McNally’s vocals, the contributions of Cory Younts bring an authenticity that grounds the record in roots music, giving it a lived-in, timeless quality. The result is an album that honors the past while pushing forward, much like the Maritimers whose journeys and stories inspired its creation.

The opening track, “Swinging For The Fences,” sets the tone for the album, bringing high energy and a sense of determination. The track has already been selected to play during the Toronto Blue Jays’ MLB opening day game and will be featured as the show opener during the team’s opening week. It’s a fitting introduction to an album that reflects both the personal and universal—a celebration of seeking, of returning, and of forging new paths while carrying the past with you.