By Tyler Ody
A revered songwriter and producer, McConnell has written for Christina Aguilera, Plain White T’s (“Wonders Of The Younger”), Michael Franti, Brett Young (including Young’s double-platinum hit “Mercy”), Tim McGraw, Little Big Town, Brothers Osborne, Ashley Ray’s critically acclaimed (Stereogum’s #8 Best Country Album of 2020, NPR’s #26 Top Album of 2020) Pauline — which he co-wrote and produced — and more.
A Horrible Beautiful Dream, approaches the difficult task of asking questions of what one really thinks they know, in the simultaneous struggle of not being afraid of the answers that emerge. Musically, the project wraps McConnell’s rich voice in moments of dark intimacy as well as vivid brightness, and guests such as The Wood Brothers, Natalie Hemby, Audra Mae and Dan Tyminski underscore McConnell’s versatility as creative partner and commentator.
McConnell’s goal in the creation of the album was to reflect the chaotic time in which it was made, but still striving for timelessness. “You can look at the suffering of the world and you can look at the beauty of the world and you can hold them in your hands and just be present with that and not have to even understand it,” he says.
Praise for the new music has come from Bob Harris on BBC Radio 2 (“Fabulous”) and OK! Magazine, who described the collection as “breathtaking,” while Entertainment Focus highlights Sean as “one of the most talented artists in music right now.” Tour dates:
Sat., 13 October - Rozenknopje, Eindhoven, Netherlands
Mon., 17 October - The Louisiana | Bristol, United Kingdom
Tues., 18 October - The Courtyard Theatre | London, United Kingdom
Wed., 19 October - The Latest Music Bar | Brighton, United Kingdom
Fri., 21 October - The Listening Room | Thame, United Kingdom
Sun., 23 October - King Tut’s | Glasgow, United Kingdom
Mon., 24 October - The Star & Garter | Manchester, United Kingdom
Wed., 26 October - Mill Hill Chapel | Leeds, United Kingdom
Thu., 27 October - The Globe | Newcastle, United Kingdom