Ashtyn Barbaree is an internationally touring singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist from Fayetteville, Arkansas, known for her timeless, smoky, and ethereal vocals and melodies that blend the realms of indie-folk-Americana. Barbaree’s dedication to creating authentic, emotionally resonant music continues to push boundaries and enchant audiences. Her latest project, Sent Through The Ceiling, is set for independent release on October 25.
The intimate song "Reckless Nights," the album’s second single, is out now. Barbaree tells Americana Highways, "'Reckless Nights' was written as part of an intriguing project with NPR's Arts & Letters Podcast, where I discovered the story of Sandy and Wayne. Their romance—between a lead inspector and a dirt foreman during the construction of the Bobby Hopper Tunnel in Northwest Arkansas—served as the inspiration for this song’s take on fleeting passion and impulsive decisions. For me, 'Reckless Nights' captures the essence of living in the moment, embracing spontaneity, and finding love in the most unexpected places."
Sent Through The Ceiling explores themes of self-discovery, resilience, and the bittersweetness of life. Drawing inspiration from the vast landscapes of the Ozarks and personal experiences, Barbaree weaves narratives of love, loss, and the pursuit of dreams. This collection of songs features arrangements that reflect the spirit of Americana music through the eyes of an Arkansan with a rich musical palette that includes elements of folk, rock, pop, and country.
The first single, "Copenhagen," was released on August 9 and reflects on togetherness and separation, recalling Barbaree’s time in Denmark's capital. It captures the essence of cherished memories and enduring bonds amidst the city's wintry landscape, illustrating how warmth and love can be found even in the coldest climates. Glide Magazine premiered the song, noting, “There is a warmth to Barbaree’s vocals that pulls you into its embrace."
With delicate instrumentation and poignant vocals, the album opener "Along for The Ride" gracefully navigates Barbaree's closeness to the narrative—the tragic loss of her first love in a car accident—leaving a lasting impact. The title track takes a leap of faith for love, while "I’m Not Ready" recounts the heart-wrenching experience of witnessing a loved one's battle with a terminal illness, clinging to hope for another day together. Embodying the raw emotions that come with the complexities of grief and loss at a young age, "The Doorbell Rang" reveals both vulnerability and fortitude through pop-infused piano and melodies.
"Lost In Your Eyes" is a moody tale of timeless connection, while "I Don’t Believe In Coincidences" ponders love, fate, and stability, encouraging one to savor each moment. "2am Shadow" confronts miscommunication in a relationship, while "What We’ve Become" reflects on the enigmatic nature of growing up, finding strength in accepting change and moving forward.
Self-produced, the ten original tracks on Sent Through The Ceiling were recorded in December 2023 at Haxton Road Studios in Bentonville, Arkansas, with engineer Ryan Ceola. Along with Barbaree singing lead, the album includes a talented lineup of Arkansan musicians, including Phillip Cannon (backing vocals), Ty Dunn (pedal steel, electric and classical guitars, piano), Garrett Jones (upright bass), Matt Nelson (organ and piano), Jacob Campbell (acoustic and electric guitars), and Derek Weiand (drums and piano), as well as cameos by Nick Caffrey (bass), Christian Serrano-Torres (cello), Lacy Hampton (backing vocals), and Adams Collins (banjo, Arkansauce). This project was partially funded by the Artists 360 program from Mid-America Arts Alliance.
Ashtyn Barbaree has demonstrated unwavering enthusiasm and dedication throughout her artistic career. Her authentic songwriting and passionate performances have captivated audiences across the United States and Europe. During college at the University of Arkansas (Fayetteville), she performed over 300 shows annually between 2013 and 2017, balancing her studies and burgeoning music career while earning a degree in geology. Her 2018 debut self-titled EP, recorded at The Butcher Shoppe in Nashville with producer David "Fergie" Ferguson, paved the way for her first European tour in 2018.
In 2020, she recorded her first full-length album, Better Luck Next Time, at The Studio Nashville, and its release propelled her career into extensive touring throughout Europe. She was recognized as the Arkansas Music Ambassador by Arkansas State Tourism and received nominations for Americana Artist of the Year (2023) and Acoustic Act of the Year (2024) at the Arkansas Country Music Awards.
2024’s Sent Through The Ceiling represents the culmination of Barbaree’s artistic evolution and personal growth to this moment.
Out October 25. Pre-save Sent Through The Ceiling → https://push.fm/ps/sentthroughtheceiling
Ashtyn Barbaree On Tour: https://www.ashtynbarbaree.com/tour
9/13 Fri - Green Bay, WI - Hagemeister Park Pub +
9/14 Sat - Cedarburg, WI - Toast Restaurant +
9/20 Fri - Nashville, TN - The Arkansas Party - Sidebar Nashville
9/24 Tue - Florence, AL - Lava Room Songwriter Showcase
9/28 Sat - Fayetteville, AR - Hill City Rumble
10/5 Sat - Rogers, AR - Walmart Amp Underground =
10/24-10/27 Naperville, IL - Folk Alliance Midwest (FARM) - Official Showcase Artist
- w/ Gebel Girls and Team One Mile
= (pre-show, intermission, and post-show for Jewel and Melissa Etheridge)
For more information and updates, please visit:
www.ashtynbarbaree.com
www.facebook.com/ashtynbarbaree
www.instagram.com/missashtyn
www.tiktok.com/@ashtynbarbaree
