Flow State: Keith Urban's Yacht Rock Revival
Keith Urban's latest album, "Flow State," features 10 remakes of classic soft rock tunes from the '70s and one original track. Urban describes the flow state as being completely present and lost in the moment, a feeling of balance between participation and observation. The album aims to evoke a sense of relaxation and escape, offering listeners a moment to exhale and unwind with its soothing melodies.
The project started as a fun experiment to test Urban's new studio, but it quickly evolved into a full-fledged album under the guidance of producer Dann Huff. Huff suggested that elements of yacht rock had always been present in Urban's songwriting, making the music flow effortlessly. The album features covers of iconic songs like "Summer Breeze," "Baby Come Back," and "How Much I Feel," all reimagined with Urban's signature style and flair.
Urban carefully selected the songs based on his vocal ability, choosing tracks that suited his range and style. Collaborations with artists like Michael McDonald and Little Big Town added depth and richness to the album, creating a unique blend of yacht rock and country music. Urban's vision for the project was to honor the original songs while adding his own touch, creating arrangements that felt true to the spirit of the music.
The album's standout track, "We Go Back," features Michael McDonald and showcases Urban's songwriting prowess. Urban's collaboration with McDonald came to fruition through a series of conversations and mutual admiration for each other's work. The album also includes a collaboration with Little Big Town on "Magnet & Steel," a song that perfectly suited the group's harmonies and style.
Urban's new studio, the Sound, has become a creative hub for artists like Morgan Wallen, Ella Langley, and Michael Bublé. While Urban doesn't run it as a commercial studio, he welcomes friends and acquaintances to use the space for recording and creative projects. The studio serves as Urban's personal sanctuary, a place where he can escape and immerse himself in music and creativity.
As a lifelong ocean enthusiast, Urban's connection to the water runs deep. Growing up in Australia, he spent much of his childhood by the ocean, and it remains a source of inspiration and solace for him. Urban's affinity for the ocean is reflected in his music, which captures the essence of relaxation and escape, much like the soothing rhythms of yacht rock.