Americana fans, get ready to lose yourselves in the ordered chaos of “Bees,” the breathtaking new single from Chris Williams and Kid Reverie (aka Steve Varney). Following the “life-affirming” success of their 2023 debut ‘Something From Nothing’, this new collaboration marks a thrilling shift as the duo moves from remote Zoom sessions to the legendary Blasting Room Studios in Colorado. “Bees” is a masterclass in atmospheric folk, weaving together pensive banjo, soaring cello from Russick Smith, and Varney’s restrained tenor into a ruminative meditation on human self-interest. The track beautifully captures the duo’s evolving chemistry, blending Williams’ roots-rock sensibility with Varney’s subversive production edge to create a soundscape that is as intellectually sharp as it is emotionally resonant.
This latest project signals a deeper level of collaboration, with Williams and Varney trading songwriting duties and pushing each other into new creative territories. While their first album was born from a serendipitous connection over a banjo lesson, this upcoming EP proves they have blossomed into one of the most exciting partnerships in modern folk. Recording in person has added a raw, immediate energy to the tracks, anchored by the stellar musicianship of a full ensemble including Max Barcelow and Jeb Bows. It is rare to find music that feels this cinematic yet deeply personal, but “Bees” manages to strike that perfect balance, offering a quietly powerful entrance into what is certain to be one of the most anticipated folk releases of the coming year.