The Prairie States Unveil 10-track Album, Trouble Is
11-time Country Music Alberta Award recipients The Prairie States have their brand-new album, Trouble Is. Featuring their signature infectious melodies and rhythms, the 10-track recording is a collection of classic, feel-good music that offers a real sense of home.
Trouble Is was produced by Erik Dylan and Bobby Wills, and the title track “Trouble Is” has an anthemic singalong chorus that radiates excitement and exhilaration as the band reminds listeners that true love is always worth the trouble. “Backroad” (That 17 Summer)” is a fast and free-driving song with the snarl and twang of classic 90’s country that feels reminiscent of reliving the butterfly moments of a past summer love. Also included on the album is the new track “Heart Was A Place,” which imagines what the heart of the one you love would look like if it were a spot where you could live.
First off, care to introduce yourself to our readers?
We are The Prairie States, a five-piece country band from Edmonton, Alberta. We have been together since 2017 and have accomplished quite a bit in the last seven years. We are eleven-time Country Music Alberta Award recipients including the 2018 Rising Star, 2019 Horizon Group/Duo Of The Year, 2020 Songwriters of the Year, 2023 Group/Duo Of The Year, and a nomination for 2022 CCMA Songwriters of The Year. In 2022 we had our first top 30 hit with our song “Waiting On You”. We like to describe our sound as “Arena Country”. Big sound, big songs, big show. We pride ourselves on our live show. We really love being on stage and find that is where we connect with people.
Can you share the inspiration behind the title “Trouble Is” and how it reflects the theme of the album?
“Trouble Is” was a song that was written on our first writing trip to Nashville. Nash got to sit down and write with two heavy-weight writers, Jim Collins and Wade Kirby. These guys have so many number ones between them that he was a bit intimidated walking into the session. The guys got to know each other and one of them threw the title out. “Trouble Is” that everything great doesn’t last forever so enjoy the moment. We thought it was a fitting title for the album because it’s a snapshot of a moment in time for our band. We went through a lot of growth throughout the process of making this record and the songs tell the tale.
What was the creative process like working with producers Erik Dylan and Bobby Wills on this album?
Both Erik & Bobby bring different things to the table. It was an eye-opening experience for us as a band to see how the whole Nashville world works and to balance that with time at home in Alberta in the studio too. These guys had a vision for the record and a sound in mind. It was a real pleasure to see it all come to life. With each song and mix, we got more excited to see how our sound and their vision came together to bring the band to the next level. We can’t wait for the fans to hear the complete record.
Were there any memorable moments or challenges during the recording sessions that stand out?
One of the most memorable moments was watching Mat record his vocals. He has a killer voice and we as a band know that but it was really cool to see how the room reacted when he sang his first note. Erik has worked with some of the best artists in country music today and to see his face light up was a magic moment. Sometimes it’s just in the air and everyone in the room knows it.
Congratulations on being named the 2023 Group/Duo Of The Year by Country Music Alberta. How does it feel to receive this recognition?
This award was a big one for us. In the past years, we have received awards in the Horizon category which is for up-and-coming artists. This was the first year we were eligible for the Group/Duo category and our Country Music Alberta family chose us. It was a big one and we are so proud to be a part of this community and think the world should take a closer look at the music being made in Alberta.
After the Winter Wonderland Tour, what are the band’s plans for 2024? Any upcoming projects or goals you can share with your fans?
The Winter Wonderland Tour was a fantastic experience and opportunity for us. We are really honored that Jess Moskaluke chose us as her opening act. We want to take the momentum from that and dive right into 2024. The Trouble Is album release will be the start of a new year of music and shows for us. There are show announcements coming for the summer festival season and there is new music being mixed that will be released as the months roll on. Stay tuned for what’s in store!
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