Newbridge Reveals Powerful Single “Centuries” Ahead of Debut Album Release

LISTEN TO “CENTURIES” HERE

Halifax, Nova Scotia-based rock and Americana collective Newbridge has unveiled their new single, “Centuries,” offering a sweeping and emotional journey that captures the chaos and excitement of rediscovering love after years of guarded hesitation. A fusion of rock, R&B, and folk, “Centuries” explores both the darkness and exhilaration that comes with stepping into something unfamiliar, marking a bold new chapter for the band. The track is set to be part of their debut album, Past Lives, scheduled for release on March 28th.

“Centuries” began with inspiration drawn from classic 1960s R&B, but as the song developed, it evolved into a more dramatic and cinematic experience. The song’s sound recalls the intensity of The Rolling Stones’ “Gimme Shelter” and the soaring grandeur of Pink Floyd’s “The Great Gig in the Sky.” With its soaring melody and poignant lyrics, the track pairs hopeful themes of love and rediscovery with a brooding instrumental backdrop, intensifying the emotional pull of the song. The contrast between the two creates a powerful, almost cinematic, tension that draws listeners into the narrative. Through the use of evocative vocal performance by Amber Woodhouse and layered instrumentation, “Centuries” transcends its original inspiration, taking the band’s sound into bold new territory.

Keith Maddison, lead vocalist and guitarist for Newbridge, reflects on the song’s personal inspiration: “I was very leery of love after some tumultuous relationships, but when I met my future wife, it was like I had been asleep for centuries. She showed me the way back.” His raw, heartfelt words capture the essence of the track—a rediscovery of love after emotional hesitation—and they are underscored by the stirring, atmospheric quality of the music itself. This combination of personal reflection and musical depth gives the song its compelling, timeless quality.

Newbridge is a powerhouse collective made up of veteran Canadian musicians who bring decades of experience to the band’s sound. Keith Maddison, best known for his work with Maddison Avenue, leads the group alongside Glen Nicholson of In-Flight Safety, Jeff Mosher of The Mellotones and Matt Andersen’s band, Warren Robert, a former collaborator with Myles Goodwyn and Pogey, and Robbie Crowell, who has worked with artists such as Sturgill Simpson, Deer Tick, and Matt Mays. The band’s lineup and expertise are evident in the album’s carefully crafted sound, which blends the warmth of folk and country with a rock edge that’s both gritty and refined.

Past Lives was recorded at the legendary Creative Workshops Studio in Nashville, where icons like Emmylou Harris, Waylon Jennings, and The Doobie Brothers created some of their most influential albums. The history and spirit of the studio can be felt throughout the album, as the band expertly weaves together influences from a range of genres, creating a sound that is both familiar and fresh.

Newbridge’s music is a distinctive blend of folk, country, blues, and rock, with strong nods to classic artists like The Band, Van Morrison, Tom Petty, and The Wallflowers. Their unique style combines heartfelt ballads with high-energy anthems that capture the full range of human emotion. With contributions from Nashville luminaries such as Laur Joamets (Sturgill Simpson), Cory Younts (Old Crow Medicine Show), Shannon McNally (Dr. John, Levon Helm), and Amber Woodhouse (Trigger Hippy), Past Lives showcases a wide range of musical influences and textures. From the raw vulnerability of the ballads to the full-throttle energy of their rock anthems, the album delivers a rich listening experience that captures the essence of the band’s unique sound.

“Centuries” is a powerful introduction to the band’s debut album, offering a glimpse into the emotional depth and musical range that Newbridge brings to their work. The song’s blend of rock, R&B, and Americana reflects the band’s ability to move seamlessly between genres while maintaining a cohesive, distinctive sound. Fans of classic rock and modern Americana will find much to love in Newbridge’s music, as the band expertly combines storytelling, emotion, and musical craftsmanship.

As the release date for Past Lives approaches, Newbridge’s “Centuries” sets the stage for what promises to be a dynamic and unforgettable debut album. With its blend of powerful emotion, timeless influences, and cutting-edge sound, the band is poised to make a significant mark on the rock and Americana music scenes. Fans can look forward to experiencing more of the band’s evocative storytelling and sonic experimentation when the full album drops later this month.