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Switchback: Black Mountain

December 14, 2009
Written by Stuart Morrison

From Switchback’s 12th album Ghosts of the River Folk
Ghosts of the River Folk

The indie Folk-Pop band Switchback, out of Chicago, has a brand new album coming out in January – Ghosts of the River Folk.

Ghosts of the River Folk is the latest release from Switchback, the award winning songwriting duo of Brian FitzGerald and Marty McCormack. Switchback is joined by former Brian Wilson drummer Jim Hines, Ellis Clark on keyboards, fiddler Paul Russell, and Grammy award winning producer Lloyd Maines on Papoose Guitar. Also contributing to this new project are acclaimed accordionist John Williams, who wrote the music for the DreamWorks feature motion picture Road To Perdition, Brianne Bolin on squeeze box accordion, and Siobhan FitzGerald, Maggie FitzGerald and Mike Hagler delivering vocal harmonies.

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101 Responses to “Switchback: Black Mountain”

  1. iruk on December 14th, 2009 4:55 pm

    Glad you liked it, but its not released quite yet. When it is it will be via Way Good Music http://www.waygoodmusic.com/

  2. Helmut on December 14th, 2009 5:07 pm

    Never mind…. I went to their Web-Site. http://www.waygoodmusic.com

    Got all the info I needed there, plus a lot of other great music by Switchback.

  3. Tweets that mention Switchback: Black Mountain : Insomnia Radio: Indie Music Network -- Topsy.com on December 14th, 2009 10:33 am

    [...] This post was mentioned on Twitter by AMP Podcasting, Stuart Morrison. Stuart Morrison said: Today we feature Folk-Pop from the upcoming 12th album Ghosts of the River Folk by Chicago's SWITCHBACK http://bit.ly/7v4C8B [...]

  4. Jim Marshall on December 14th, 2009 6:53 pm

    This band is one of the most innovative, rock solid and easily enjoyable groups i have ever heard. None of their tunes are alike– they span several styles yet it all holds together with a great groove, vocals, and, by the way: these guys are amazing LIVE. You have got to see them! They are as witty as their tunes are tasty! Thank you for featuring such a deserving band. Go Marty and Brian!

  5. gardengirl on December 14th, 2009 7:03 pm

    I love Switchback! Their Celtic music is phenomenal, and many would say their Americana work is even better! Can't wait until the "Ghosts of the River Folk" comes out!

  6. switchfan on December 14th, 2009 7:07 pm

    These guys are phenomenal musicians. If you ever get a chance to see them live, do it!

  7. skibbereengirl on December 14th, 2009 7:11 pm

    It is so wonderful to see Switchback featured here on the Daily Dose. I can't wait until the new album is available. From what I hear, it very well may the best one yet. And that is saying a lot since the other albums are excellent!

  8. Cathy Osmundson on December 14th, 2009 7:13 pm

    Can't wait for another great CD release from Switchback. Their talent is making waves across the US as they tour and share their love of music with others. Thanks for featuring them on Daily Dose!

  9. Mike Zim on December 14th, 2009 7:16 pm

    Top quality! More of these guys please.

  10. Liz on December 14th, 2009 7:17 pm

    Amazing! Beautifully composed and gracefully performed! Perfection in a duo unlike any other. If you are close to a live venue…don't miss them!

  11. George Philip on December 14th, 2009 7:24 pm

    Heard these guys live on numerous occasions both sides of the Atlantic..Truly a gifted pair of musicians.Seen them in the U.S and Scotland. Exceptional.

  12. Mindy Hamilton on December 14th, 2009 7:47 pm

    myself and my daughter are huge fans! Seen the boys in multiple countries, multiple states and multiple venues. A rock solid duo with amazing music. Great lyrics and beautiful instruments, both music and voices! Can't for the new CD!

  13. Susan on December 14th, 2009 7:49 pm

    Great musicians – have seen them live and can't wait to hear them again. These guys are fantastic – listen every chance you get.

  14. david on December 14th, 2009 7:50 pm

    Enter greattext right here!
    good guys there music is awesome and very enjoyable to listen to and have fun

    nancy whiskey to name a few

  15. Mindy Hamilton on December 14th, 2009 7:50 pm

    That should be can't WAIT for the new CD.

    Oh, and when I say my daughter is a huge fan that is great testimony coming from a teenager! Switchback can relate to all ages!

  16. JGonline on December 14th, 2009 7:54 pm

    Cool. Totally laid back and wistful.

  17. kelly d on December 14th, 2009 7:54 pm

    Looking forward to the new CD release. Switchback abú!

  18. Brenda Brazzell on December 14th, 2009 7:54 pm

    Love Switchback. Have all their albums and this one promises to be awesome. Can't wait.

  19. Karol on December 14th, 2009 8:04 pm

    Great music. We go to see Switchback whenever we can.

  20. Jane on December 14th, 2009 8:05 pm

    We saw them live a few years ago in Minnesota and wish they would get down into Central Illinois once in a while. They are awesome!
    jane@diazsignart.com

  21. Don Sawicki on December 14th, 2009 8:06 pm

    Can't wait to get the new album. Long live Switchback!

  22. Katrina on December 14th, 2009 8:07 pm

    WOW! Brilliant band live in Europe too!

  23. Maire on December 14th, 2009 8:13 pm

    WOW what a pair or musicians we have in Marty and Brian. Switchback is awesome and so deserving of this notariety. Best way to start the New Year with a great NEW RELEASE!

  24. Bruce the Drummer on December 14th, 2009 8:17 pm

    This is one of the best duo's around anywhere. Black Mountain is an EXCELLENT tune from their new release, can't wait to get it in Jan. These guys are great live, you really need to go see and hear them, quite entertaining.

  25. Becky on December 14th, 2009 8:21 pm

    Fantastic duo!!! Love their music, keep up the excellent work!!!

  26. Mrs. Gall on December 14th, 2009 8:23 pm

    I have traveled to Ireland to see Switchback!!! They are the real deal!!! Check out all their CD's they are all wonderful!!

  27. Octavia on December 14th, 2009 8:24 pm

    Great music as always guys! Looking forward to getting the new album once it releases.

  28. Julie Hitchcock on December 14th, 2009 8:25 pm

    Absolutely awesome couple of guys. You are really missing out if you don't see them in person! Not only are they talented but the nicest 2 guy's you'll ever meet!

  29. Richard de Courtenay on December 14th, 2009 8:30 pm

    This duo is a musical gem. Please feature more music from them as they really deserve much more exposure.

  30. Donnal on December 14th, 2009 8:31 pm

    Found these guys in a drafty Irish Manor House. An almost private venue. It was GREAT! Buy their CD's.

  31. Janell on December 14th, 2009 8:32 pm

    Switchback is one of the most versatile bands in the Midwest and that's what makes them so fabulous to listen to, whether it's a live performance or you're spinning one of their CDs or have their tunes in your iPod. I can't wait for their new CD to be released. We traveled all the way to Ireland to hear them perform in Johnny Fox's pub – a memorable experience to be sure!

  32. Jeff B on December 14th, 2009 8:34 pm

    These guys are a great addition to any music collection. It is great to see that they are being recognized here.

  33. m r on December 14th, 2009 8:34 pm

    great song from a a great band

  34. Kevin on December 14th, 2009 8:35 pm

    High energy, great sound. These guys are the best!

  35. Caitriona on December 14th, 2009 1:35 pm

    WOW! as always fantastic guys.
    See you in Kansas for sure. Who knows where else now.

  36. jevangelho on December 14th, 2009 8:38 pm

    This is the most enthusiasm I've seen in our comments for years. Thanks for showing up and voicing your praise for Switchback!

    You guys & gals might also dig our new Live & Acoustic feed: http://insomniaradio.net/category/ir-regional/liv...

  37. Jim Whiskey on December 14th, 2009 8:42 pm

    Greetings from Honolulu. They have been here twice. Great persons, mayo connection

  38. Patrick on December 14th, 2009 8:51 pm

    Greatr tune! Look foreward to the rest of the CD. Wish we could see these guys in Minnesota.

  39. celtic56 on December 14th, 2009 8:51 pm

    So blessed to hear them. I too can't wait for the new cd.

  40. Hannah S. on December 14th, 2009 8:51 pm

    Opened for Switchback a couple of summers ago, and I love them! They are the nicest guys and their music is wonderful. One of my favorite bands.

  41. Byrnes on December 14th, 2009 8:54 pm

    We love Switchback and we have all their CD's. We see them in Muskegon, MI. every year. A very entertaining group.

  42. Jayn on December 14th, 2009 8:59 pm

    Great choice for the Daily dose. Have been a fan of Switchback for years and am still awed by their incredible talent and wide diversity of music styles. Our kids are also fans as are our grandsons, showing the wide range of appeal that thewe guys have.

  43. Colin M. on December 14th, 2009 9:03 pm

    The band is unique and Black Mountain doesn't disappoint. Come out to Montana boys!

  44. theo on December 14th, 2009 9:04 pm

    I've only heard a little Switchback off and on, but this is gorgeous, as I expect from them.

  45. Bruce Courts on December 14th, 2009 9:10 pm

    These guys light up the Hey Hey in Columbus, Ohio. They are talented and always entertaining!

  46. Bob Bowden on December 14th, 2009 9:13 pm

    These guys are phenomenal. I've seen them many times, and will not miss a chance to see them again when they're anywhere within a few hour radius. I can't wait for the new disc!!

    Bob Bowden

  47. RayderBop on December 14th, 2009 9:14 pm

    We are going to the SOLD OUT New Year's dinner – dance up in northern Ontario, Canada to see them on the 31st. Bringing a bunch of friends and family to the event. Can't wait!! It will be the Canadian release party for their new CD! I love the new song and there are more samples from the new CD on the waygood site.

  48. Enda O'Donnell on December 14th, 2009 9:32 pm

    Excellent as usual – Switchback bring together all that's great in celtic folk and can't wait unti lthey come back here to Ireland. New album on my Christmas list – have a great holiday season (as you call it over there in America!). TradLad

  49. Christine on December 14th, 2009 9:46 pm

    Can't wait to hear the new CD AND to see them again live–awesome! Greeting from Christine in Honolulu!

  50. Betty B on December 14th, 2009 9:50 pm

    My first introduction to Switchback was a live performance in Texas and they blew me away. They had it all: lyrics, harmony, bridge, great vocals, killer guitarists, and Brian on the mandolin is something to experience! This is a hardworking, prolific team made up of two really nice guys that offer great music, and they've definitely earned their slot on Daily Dose!

  51. Marie on December 14th, 2009 9:53 pm

    I really like this sound! It's unique — a wonderful listen. Looking forward to the new CD!

  52. Guest on December 14th, 2009 9:53 pm

    First saw this duo perform on a Friday night and completely re-arranged my weekend plans so I could see them again Saturday night (roughly 3 hours drive away from the Friday show). I've been looking for them to come this direction again ever since! If you get a chance to see these two live, TAKE IT.

  53. uberVU - social comments on December 14th, 2009 3:01 pm

    Social comments and analytics for this post…

    This post was mentioned on Twitter by musicpodcasting: #music #podcast Insomnia Radio Daily Dose: Switchback: Black Mountain http://bit.ly/6ebthw #amped…

  54. Scott on December 14th, 2009 10:16 pm

    These guys are no less than one of the best bands touring now. Their talent is beyond 99% of the newer bands I have heard in the last few years. If you ever get a chance to see them live, JUMP on it! I would buy at least three of their albums if you can.

  55. Robin Rolder on December 14th, 2009 10:16 pm

    Switchback is my all time favorite band. Love, love you guys and look for to the show in January at fitzgeralds!

  56. Iowa on December 14th, 2009 10:17 pm

    I love this song! It just makes me feel happy! Definitely the kind of stuff I want a Daily Dose of! Thanks so much for featuring these extremely talented performers.

  57. Guest on December 14th, 2009 10:18 pm

    Have the honor of working for Switchback when they are in our area and I have to say that Marty and Brian are two of the most genuine people that I have ever met! Black Mountain is terrific!!! Planning to attend the release of this CD on January 16 in Chicago!!!! Cannot wait!!!!!

  58. Mike Klute on December 14th, 2009 10:24 pm

    Switchback is always a joy to listen to. Marty & Brian are jewels of the Midwest.

  59. Pat S. on December 14th, 2009 10:26 pm

    I've listened to Switchback for years. They continue to produce great music. Can't wait to see them again.

  60. Mark R on December 14th, 2009 10:38 pm

    Very nice. I have been a fan for years.

  61. Judy on December 14th, 2009 10:42 pm

    Marty and Brian rock! Great song.
    Judy

  62. RayderBop on December 14th, 2009 10:48 pm

    Check out another song with Brian on Mandolin…but a little faster…OK a lot faster!
    [youtube pCqgGG8hZsM http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pCqgGG8hZsM youtube]

  63. The Mullen Clan on December 14th, 2009 11:07 pm

    we,ve had them play for our party for 4-5 years.There GREAT, This one sounds like a hit too Keep it up.

  64. RayderBop on December 14th, 2009 11:08 pm

    And "Black Mountain" from the same show…

    [youtube lBm-1beOESI http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lBm-1beOESI youtube]

  65. cstepczyk on December 14th, 2009 11:10 pm

    The Switchback track is also being mirrored at The Hype Machine today for those who would like to give it some extra love. Here's the link: http://hypem.com/#/track/981973/Switchback+-+Blac...

  66. James Sobczak on December 14th, 2009 11:15 pm

    Have known and loved these guys since first seeing them in 1994 and have always gladly followed the musical trail they have blazed ever since then. If "Black Mountain" is an indication of anything, we are in for another stunner from Martin & Brian. CANNOT WAIT to get my hands on this. Best success, you guys!!

  67. cornelia dhaseleer on December 14th, 2009 4:15 pm

    any chance to experience you lads live is heaven and i can’t wait til jan 16th!?

  68. Mike Cross on December 14th, 2009 11:29 pm

    Haven't seen these guys live in a while, I miss 'em. They put on a FANSTSTIC show. Good people, great music! Couldn't ask for more.

  69. Bob on December 14th, 2009 4:37 pm

    Great duo. Saw them at Sandwich, IL last mMarch. Can’t wait for Jan 16th Fitzgeralds Chicago concert.

  70. Roger R on December 14th, 2009 11:44 pm

    Marty & Brian are one of the best live duo's you will ever see, I look for where I can catch these guys whenever I can!

  71. Wayne on December 15th, 2009 12:06 am

    Good Music

  72. Angela Welch on December 15th, 2009 12:17 am

    Just met & heard these 2 great guys for the 1st time last week in Peoria, IL & I can assure it won't be my last time! Black Mountain is 1 of my favs!! Love you guys!

  73. Stjoemike on December 15th, 2009 12:19 am

    These guys are fabulous. Having seen them a number of times live I would have to recommend thier concerts as a must see event. Keep up the great work gents!

  74. SeannyO on December 15th, 2009 12:20 am

    Awesome! You guys have much talent!!!!!

  75. dje on December 15th, 2009 12:58 am

    EnLove Switchback–play more!ter text right here!

  76. Cecilia Skelton on December 14th, 2009 6:01 pm

    Awesome music!!!!!

  77. Clint on December 15th, 2009 1:49 am

    Been listening to these guys for years. Had the pleasure to see them perform on several occasions. They are the real deal. Looking forward to the rest of this new album.

  78. Susan on December 15th, 2009 1:56 am

    This is such an amazing group. Love there music so much. Can not wait to get the "Ghost of the river" cd . I have almost all of there cds and play them alot.

  79. Twa' Digits on December 14th, 2009 7:40 pm

    Saw Switchback at the Muskegon Irish Fest a couple of times. Great music, great stage show and fun to listen to!

  80. Gina on December 15th, 2009 2:46 am

    great lyrics!

  81. Hoagdusters on December 15th, 2009 3:14 am

    What a taltented and versatile group — high energy and fabulous music! See y'all in Jan. at the album release party! http://www.waygoodmusic.com

  82. Carol on December 15th, 2009 3:15 am

    These guys are awesome! I've seen them live twice and always look forward to new tunes. Keep crankin' em out!

  83. Bev Prosser on December 15th, 2009 3:22 am

    Enter text right here!
    Another great, heartfelt song from my favorite duo!

  84. Taylor on December 15th, 2009 3:32 am

    Switchback Rocks!! Saw them on St. Pat's Day last year and can't wait to see them in Jan. They are great!!!

  85. Jörg on December 14th, 2009 8:43 pm

    Moin, Moin (,we say in East frisia ;) )

    I like Switchbacks music. Marty and Brian are great musicians. Black mountains tune is an excellent song and i think the other tunes of the new CD will be great, too, like all other CD of SB :)
    Greetings from Germany, Merry x-mas and all the best for comming year to Brian & Marty

  86. Becky on December 15th, 2009 3:50 am

    Whether hearing Switchback in various U.S, cities or Ireland, their music never fails to enchant their audiences. I look forward to celebrating with them at the release of their lastest CD and also can't wait to travel back to Ireland with them again in January.

  87. Ted Thomas on December 15th, 2009 3:51 am

    Incredible musicians! Kind of like the Beatles; sent from heaven!

  88. Ramona on December 15th, 2009 3:54 am

    I have seen Switchback perform many times, most recently Dec. 5th, they just keep getting better and better!

  89. Tom on December 15th, 2009 3:56 am

    "Black Mountain" was my first experience with Switchback. Fell for it immediately! I love the images the song creates about a place I'd like to go.

  90. JBink on December 15th, 2009 3:57 am

    Looking forward to the new album – Switchback is of course best heard live, but since we can't be everywhere, we need these CDs!

  91. Ed L on December 15th, 2009 4:53 am

    First heard Switchback at Northern Michigan's Blissfest several years ago–Sweet, powerful sound! These guys are the real deal.

  92. JSundberg on December 15th, 2009 4:53 am

    Ghosts of the River Folk Digital Downloads NOW ONLINE!!
    You can now download MP3 files from the new album at http://www.waygoodmusic.com You can find the links on the homepage of the Switchback website and purchase tracks from the newest album – "Ghosts of the River Folk" or buy the entire album as a digital download from the Switchback Music page.

  93. Jim Brauneis on December 15th, 2009 7:46 am

    These guys just keep getting better. Look forward to hearing the rest of the new CD.

  94. Bonnie Bergeron on December 15th, 2009 12:55 pm

    My Husband and I have followed Switchback for years. We hope to travel with them in a few years when I retire. They are mega talented musicians and just all around great guys!

  95. Tom & Nancy Gavlin on December 15th, 2009 3:02 pm

    We have loved the music and sound these create for many years. We have six of their albums and look forward to getting this Ghosts of the River Folks album also. We have seen them live at least 20 times and never get tired of their music.
    GO MARTY & BRIAN

  96. Sandy Seabold on December 15th, 2009 3:15 pm

    This song is absolutely beautiful!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I'd like to hear more Switchback!

  97. tom on December 15th, 2009 6:50 pm

    Great, I love Switchback

  98. Goody on December 15th, 2009 7:48 pm

    Switchback is an original. They are an enjoyable duo with a timeless sound that evokes their rural Irish heritage that settled in the Upper Mississippi River Valley. Just like the spirit of all things Iowa they are an inclusive sound that had my 90 year old great aunt crying during a live performance of Danny Boy and my rock'n roller brother jammin to Conamara Man. They are that sound I was looking for. Maybe you will find it too.

  99. Doug on December 16th, 2009 8:17 pm

    Switchback are absolutely fabulous. Their music is powerful and soul shaping, and to actually experience it in live performance is worth the trip, whatever it's length! Looking forward to the release of their new album with great anticipation. If you haven't already, give them a listen; better yet, go see them in person and experience its full affect!

  100. jimbo on January 2nd, 2010 5:21 pm

    I saw these two guys here in texas and they will literly blow you away the music will take you to the heart of Ireland a must hear at any given chance thanx for gettn these two air time Slainte!

  101. Bruce Courts on March 8th, 2010 12:52 am

    These guys bring the energy and instrument talent to the stage–I thoroughly enjoy them.

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