Passionate, Odd, Grateful

The One Year EP is the second album from Chaz Hearne, a Chicago folk musician. Chaz leads the way on the guitar/banjo with Alex Giliwicz accompanying on the cello as the album takes the listener on a journey through a young couples' relationship.

C: I've always loved concept albums. I like to use songs to tell a larger story. And so, we follow a young couple who moves into a cabin away from everything. The seasons show the passing of time as they explore different elements of a relationship.

A: Playing with the different textures and soundscapes of the cello in the folk context, applying those to create the different seasons in the world Chaz has envisioned, has been really enjoyable.

In writing the album, Chaz and Alex found a way to feel the authenticity of seasons.

C: To create from this lens, each song was written in the opposite time of year to capture the essence of each season.

Unique in vision, the emotion within the change of season is brought to light. Crisp autumn air comes alive through finger-picking while the budding optimism of spring is lyrically evident. If you get the chance, you'll want to check out a live performance.

C: Most people don't go to concerts just to see songs, they go because they want to have fun. My goal is to create a performance that goes beyond simply performing songs. Since all of my albums follow some sort of narrative, I've had a lot of fun enhancing my shows with costumes, kazoos, glow sticks... anything to get the audience involved.

Regardless of whether or not a live show is in the cards for you, stop reading and go take a listen. It's a journey you have to experience yourself.

You can also watch Chaz play the fifth track on the album, Yes We Will.