KYET Morning News Feature

DANCING ABOUT ARCHITECTURE

More often than not, classic songs are covered for all the wrong reasons. Either an artist is arrogant enough to think that they can improve on an original, something that has only been achieved on a handful of occasions – Jeff Buckley‘s take on “Hallelujah,” Kirsty MacColl’s reworking of “A New England” spring to mind – or are just riding on the coattails of greatness.

The only reason to cover the best-known songs of the great and the good is to celebrate their genius, to add to their legacy rather than your own, and that is precisely what we find going on with CaliAmericana, Vol. 3 – a gathering of artists with one sonic mission in mind, to remind us, this time out, of just how brilliant and essential a songwriter and performer the late, great David Crosby was.

Here his legacy is explored, and Chris and John Beland covering The Byrds “Eight Miles High” is the prominent place to start, but the album is a reminder that David Crosby was a man of many sonic moods and by contrast to the opener, Katherine Sieck‘s seductive and elegant version of 1971 Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young track “Lee Shore” sees his music at its most delicate.

Shawn Thies offers a brilliant version of “Guinnevere,” from the eponymous CS&N debut album, musically faithful and her single voice every bit as emotive and evocative as their original triple-harmonies.

Whether you are an existing fan of Crosby and the bands with which he was involved or new to his music, this is either a beautiful addition to your record collection or a brilliant introduction. Either way, you need it in your life.

MAXAZINE

Various Artists – CaliAmericana, Vol. 3 (A Compilation Inspired by the Legacy of David Crosby)

This tribute album brings together several seriously talented singers to honour David Crosby’s legacy, and honestly, they’ve done it perfectly. Chris and John Beland open with a beautiful version of “Eight Miles High” that sets exactly the right tone. Shawn Thies shines on both “Oh, Nightingale” and “Guinnevere”; her voice has this incredible warmth that makes these songs feel fresh again. Jonathan Firey delivers two excellent performances with the poignant “Dangerous Night” and the more captivating “Dirty David”, showing real versatility. Kathleen Sieck’s contributions are equally impressive – her rendition of “Lee Shores” is pure meditation, while “The Universe Knows You’re Mine” hits you right in the heart. Glen Phillips brings great energy with “Velvety Jesus” and closes everything off perfectly with “Music Is Love”. What makes this so good is how each artist respects the original songs while making them their own. The production keeps everything intimate and organic, never getting in the way of the emotion. This is exactly how a tribute album should be done. (Norman van den Wildenberg) (7/10) (Santa Barbara Records)

PLANETSINGER

A Stirring Tribute to a Legend: CaliAmericana, Vol. 3 Celebrates the Legacy of David Crosby

Santa Barbara Records returns with the third volume of its CaliAmericana series, and this time, the label delivers a heartfelt homage to the legacy of the iconic David Crosby. CaliAmericana, Vol. 3 (A Compilation Inspired by the Legacy of David Crosby) is a masterful collection of ten tracks performed by a curated lineup of outstanding regional singer-songwriters.

The album was released on May 24, 2025, by the boutique California label known for spotlighting Folk and Americana talent. Founded in 2021, Santa Barbara Records has been a steady force in developing and promoting some of the most genuine voices in the genre, and this compilation is no exception. The label’s commitment to authenticity, musical storytelling, and emotional depth is on full display throughout the album.

The journey begins with “Eight Miles High,” a powerful opener by Chris Beland and John Beland. Their rendition is both intimate and impassioned, honoring the original while injecting it with fresh life. Their harmonies and guitar work reflect a deep understanding of the song’s historical roots and artistic depth. Shawn Thies follows with “Oh, Nightingale,” where her rich, soulful vocals take center stage. She returns later in the compilation with a luminous interpretation of “Guinnevere,” showing the full breadth of her vocal versatility and emotional nuance.

Jonathan Firey makes a bold impression with two standout performances. “Dangerous Night” is gorgeously arranged, letting the song breathe and unfold with a quiet intensity. His second contribution, “Dirty David,” adds contrast with its edgier, more driven feel—Firey’s musical storytelling is raw, honest, and captivating. Kathleen Sieck contributes two stunning performances, as well. “Lee Shores” feels like a meditation—soft, deep, and immersive—while “The Universe Knows You’re Mine” is among the most emotionally resonant moments on the entire record. Her voice dances effortlessly through these tracks, embodying both reverence and originality.

Glen Phillips injects a jolt of energy with “Velvety Jesus,” a dynamic and layered track that highlights his signature vocal warmth and musical depth. He also bookends the compilation with “Music Is Love,” a track that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the project. Phillips’ performance is celebratory yet introspective, a fitting finale that lingers long after the final note. Chris Beland and John Beland return mid-album with “Way Beyond the Blue,” a beautiful companion piece to their opening track, reinforcing their chemistry and artistic synergy.

CaliAmericana, Vol. 3 is a collective love letter to David Crosby, told through the voices of some of the most compelling Americana artists working today. Each track stands tall on its own, but together they create a seamless narrative of inspiration, legacy, and musical camaraderie. This is a tribute album done right—respectful, inventive, and filled with heart. Now available on all major platforms, CaliAmericana, Vol. 3 is a must-listen for fans of David Crosby and for anyone who cherishes finely crafted folk and Americana music. Santa Barbara Records has once again proven its talent for curation, delivering a glowing and timeless release.

COYOTE MUSIC

Track listing: Eight Miles High (Chris Beland and John Beland), Oh, Nightingale (Shawn Thies), Dangerous Night (Jonathan Firey), Lee Shores (Kathleen Sieck), Velvety Jesus (Glen Phillips), Way Beyond the Blue (Chris Beland and John Beland), Dirty David (Jonathan Firey), The Universe Knows You're Mine (Kathleen Sieck), Guinnevere (Shawn Thies), Music is Love (Glen Phillips)

Santa Barbara Records is back with a third edition of their CaliAmericana music series. The first, released in 2021, brought together 8 artists who each recorded an original track, then covered a California-themed cover. For Vol. II, released in 2023, the approach became more specific--once again having artists record an original song but this time the cover was to be chosen from the catalog of Kenny Loggins. Now in 2025, CaliAmericana, Vol. 3 features 5 artists' original songs paired with with recordings of songs written by the legendary David Crosby.

Vol 3 kicks off with The Byrds' "Eight Miles High," performed by Chris and John Beland. While different from the original, the Belands capture Crosby and Roger McGuinn's tinny, ethereal guitar perfectly. Their vocal harmonies nail the odd intervals that gave The Byrds their unique sound. Nearly 60 years after its original release, "Eight Miles High" sets the tone for the rest of the record.

Pulled from Crosby's 2014 solo album Croz, Jonathan Firey takes on "Dangerous Night." Firey's voice delivers this track with homage and appreciation. I would have loved to have heard more vocal harmonies in the chorus--both in number and with regard to volume--but their delicate touch brings a new element to the mix.

Kathleen Sieck brings her gorgeous voice to Crosby's classic, "Lee Shore." A standard of his setlists for decades, the lyrics deal with sailing as his personal escape from addiction: "Sailing is a mystical experience for me...and has quite literally saved my life on a number of occasions. It gets me out of the whole scene. The ocean doesn't give a damn, it's never heard of you." Sieck approaches this song with reverence and respect while also putting her own stamp on this rendition.

Shawn Thies takes on "Guinnevere" and it's simply just stellar. The challenging guitar work blends beautifully with the  accompanying piano; wind chimes and shell shaker adding atmosphere. Vocal harmonies are stunning--you can envision Crosby smiling and nodding with approval.

Returning to the CaliAmericana series after his contribution of "Return to Pooh Corner" to the Loggins-themed Vol. II, Toad the Wet Sprocket singer Glen Phillips closes out the record with "Music is Love." The production of the intro emulates the audio quality of the 1971 original--distant, a nostalgic AM radio quality, repeated in the song's outro. The bulk of the track repeats the refrain, in rounds: "Everybody's saying music is love." It's a great message to close this record and its tribute to 2-time Rock n Roll Hall of Famer, David Crosby.

Each of the performing artists' original songs are worth your time. Impressive musicianship, careful songwriting, and consistently impressive vocal performances. Just released on May 24 of 2025, CaliAmericana Vol. 3 is poised to be your album of this summer. Perfect with a tall, icy beverage during your day on the lake or providing a soundtrack to a roadtrip with friends. Santa Barbara Records has nailed it again with their unique collections of covers, pairing them with artists' original tracks. It'd be wonderful to see labels from all manner of genres put together similar projects. For this album, visit santabarbararecords.com and check out its predecessors & other offerings from this special record label.

SKOPE MAGAZINE

Santa Barbara Records Presents ‘CaliAmericana, Vol. 3 (A Compilation Inspired by the Legacy of David Crosby)’

Following the overwhelmingly positive reception of the first two instalments in their CaliAmericana series, Santa Barbara Records continues its heartfelt tribute to California’s rich musical roots with “CaliAmericana, Vol. 3”.

This thoughtfully curated compilation honors the legacy of David Crosby, and once again brings together a selection of Central Coast artists. Each musician contributes an original song along with a Crosby cover. I really love this concept as it promotes modern creativity alongside paying tribute to the greats, perfectly balancing modernity and heritage.

Opening the collection, brothers Chris and John Beland deliver a faithful rendition of “Eight Miles High,” perfectly capturing the toned-down beauty of the verses. However, their version upgrades that killer guitar solo, getting a crisper and more powerful sound in part thanks to the wonders of modern recording technology.

Kathleen Sieck’s ethereal voice stands out on “The Universe Knows You’re Mine” and her cover of “Lee Shores” as she leans into the simplicity that is the essence of folk rock. Lee Shores in particular is as mesmerizing as the original, and pulls you into a rare, meditative space that invites the listener to sit still and listen close.

1. Eight Miles High (Chris Beland and John Beland)
2. Oh, Nightingale (Shawn Thies)
3. Dangerous Night (Jonathan Firey)
4. Lee Shores (Kathleen Sieck)
5. Velvety Jesus (Glen Phillips)
6. Way Beyond the Blue (Chris Beland and John Beland)
7. Dirty David (Jonathan Firey)
8. The Universe Knows You’re Mine (Kathleen Sieck)
9. Guinnevere (Shawn Thies)
10. Music is Love (Glen Phillips)

Glen Phillips’ standout performance was his original “Velvety Jesus,” a dynamic and colorful track that still retains that classic Americana sound. His cover of “Music Is Love” perfectly captures the optimism and spirit of Crosby’s more accessible side, and is a perfect album ender with its warm production that recalls the AM radio era.

Jonathan Firey brings a different sound to the project as his original “Dirty David” brings a dark and haunting edge to the collections. The vocal harmonies and string accompaniment are the perfect touches to add flavor to the album.

And finally, vocalist Shawn Thies provides two of the album’s most emotional moments with “Oh, Nightingale” and her gorgeous cover of “Guinnevere.” The richness of her voice just draws you into the tracks and with its faithfully minimalist instrumentation, I’d argue that Guinnevere is actually better than the original.

CaliAmericana, Vol. 3 is more than a tribute album. It’s a living, breathing artifact of California’s folk-rock lineage; a record that understands where it comes from and where it wants to go. Whether you’re a Crosby fan or simply in search of good music, this album offers a rare combination of depth, soul, and sincerity.

WOKE CHIMP

Santa Barbara Records is an independent label founded in 2021 with a focus on regional singer-songwriters from California’s Central Coast. With a particular emphasis on contemporary folk, the label supports artists through a mix of recording, strategic development, and hands-on collaboration. Its goal is to bring local voices to a wider audience while staying rooted in the community that shaped them.

The label’s approach reflects a long-term investment in artistic sustainability. Alongside music production, Santa Barbara Records offers resources and infrastructure for its roster, while also highlighting locally made merchandise that aligns with its values. The result is a model that supports not only the artists but also the wider creative economy of the region.

Santa Barbara Records continues to build a catalogue that reflects a clear sense of place and purpose. Its work contributes to a growing recognition of Santa Barbara as a destination for music with depth, clarity, and connection.

CaliAmericana, Vol. 3 is out now and streaming on all major platforms. The ten-track compilation runs just over thirty-nine minutes and highlights a wide spectrum of folk and Americana voices from California’s Central Coast and beyond. Featuring contributions from Glen Phillips, Chris Beland, John Beland, Shawn Thies, Jonathan Firey, and Kathleen Sieck, the album reflects the label’s ongoing commitment to regional storytelling and musical craftsmanship.

The collection opens with “Eight Miles High,” a striking collaboration between Chris and John Beland that blends sharp guitar lines with melodic restraint. Other standouts include “Lee Shores,” where Kathleen Sieck delivers a rich, emotive vocal performance, and “The Universe Knows You’re Mine,” which pairs a memorable hook with reflective lyricism. Glen Phillips brings a sense of uplift to “Music is Love,” closing the record on a note of warmth and clarity.

With thoughtful production and consistent attention to detail, CaliAmericana, Vol. 3 captures the spirit of a community of artists united by a shared sensibility. For longtime followers of the label and newcomers alike, this release offers a compelling entry point into Santa Barbara Records’ growing catalogue. Follow the label on Spotify and social media for news on future projects.

THE BANDCAMP DIARIES

CaliAmericana Vol. 3 is a compilation with a focus on paying tribute to the legacy of the great David Crosby. The compilation features ten tracks by different artists who managed to reinterpret some of Crosby’s best material in a completely unique way. There’s room for many different performers on the compilation, with each performer or act contributing two songs each. This makes for a very diverse setlist that immediately sets the bar higher in terms of dynamics. It can be difficult to create consistency in a compilation with different artists, but it’s definitely not a problem here.

The production is very well calibrated, and each song feels like it belongs to this release, even when different artists are involved on a track. CaliAmericana Vol. 3 continues to foster Santa Barbara Records’ mission to celebrate and spread the word about folk music not only by fostering new talents but also by celebrating the true masters and icons of the genre. It is a testament to the fact that while legacy matters, there’s still a huge number of phenomenal artists out there who continue to set the bar higher and perform with passion, keeping the flame of Americana alive and well.

SONIC REALMS

With "CaliAmericana, Vol. 3 (A Compilation Inspired by the Legacy of David Crosby)," Santa Barbara Records not only releases the third installment in its lovingly curated Americana series, but also a musical tribute to one of the most sensitive, richly nuanced, and at the same time most complex artists in American music history: David Crosby. This ten-song compilation by regional singer-songwriters from California is not a superficial tribute, but rather a homage arranged with dedication and depth – borne of respect, musical maturity, and a palpable emotional connection to Crosby's work.

Soft voices, great depth: The individual contributions

The opening track, "Eight Miles High," performed by Chris Beland and John Beland, sets a remarkable tone. The brothers in spirit delve deep into the psychedelic essence of this classic, with their harmonic work and nuanced guitar accompaniment not only captivating but also bridging the gap between the spirit of the 1960s and the introspective sensibility of today's Americana musicians. Without undermining the original, they succeed in creating a version that offers intimacy rather than nostalgia.

With "Oh, Nightingale," Shawn Thies delivers a beguiling ballad that unfolds with a velvety voice and melancholic understatement. Her return with "Guinnevere" toward the end of the album is a shining highlight: With respectful distance yet her own unique expression, she illuminates the fragile magic of this Crosby piece. Her voice flows like a quiet river through the complex melodies—a testament to her impressive artistic maturity.

Jonathan Firey contributes "Dangerous Night," a sensitive number steeped in acoustic depth that captivates with its calm, almost meditative atmosphere. Later, he surprises with "Dirty David," a raw, almost unpolished track that stands out clearly yet still works in the spirit of the album. Here, Firey reveals a different facet—a more edgy honesty that perfectly fits the spirit of David Crosby, who himself was never afraid of rough edges.

Kathleen Sieck brings two further highlights to the table: "Lee Shores" becomes a dreamy moment of devotion, carried by an almost sacred calm. Her singing is clear, focused, yet conveys a sense of vastness. Even more touching is "The Universe Knows You're Mine," a song that transcends the purely acoustic and touches on an almost metaphysical dimension. Sieck succeeds in using subtle techniques to create an emotional resonance that lingers long after the listener has heard it.

Energy and Contemplation: Glen Phillips and the Finale

The album experiences a dynamic infusion of energy with Glen Phillips' "Velvety Jesus." This track pulsates with rhythmic tension that is both playful and profound. Phillips masters the interplay of warmth and irony, of catchiness and ambiguity—very much in the spirit of Crosby, whose songs often possessed a second or third level. Phillips closes the album with “Music is Love” – a soulful, almost hymnic piece that once again sums up the spirit of the entire compilation: music as a unifying element, as consolation, as confession.

Between these two tracks, Chris Beland and John Beland return with "Way Beyond the Blue." This second joint performance echoes "Eight Miles High," but more intimate and earthier. The pair's musical chemistry is even more evident here—their interplay is characterized by trust, attention to detail, and a shared vision.

An Album as Tribute—Authentic and Dedicated

What makes "CaliAmericana, Vol. 3" so special is not only the consistently high quality of the contributions, but also the way they work together. There's no filler, no mere stylistic exercises. Each song stands firmly on its own merits and yet contributes to the overall impact of the album. The participating artists pay tribute to David Crosby not through imitation, but through originality. They are inspired, not led. As a result, this album does not seem museum-like or backward-looking, but rather lively, current and deeply rooted in a musical ethos characterized by openness, humanity and artistic integrity.

Santa Barbara Records once again demonstrates a remarkable flair for authentic voices and harmonious compositions. The production is clear, natural, and gives each piece the space it needs. No overly charged mix, no calculated bombast – instead, acoustic honesty and a fine sense of nuance. That an independent label with such modest infrastructure presents such a high-caliber compilation is remarkable – and underscores how important such institutions are for musical diversity and depth outside the mainstream.

"CaliAmericana, Vol. 3" is a touching, artistically mature, and lovingly produced album that honors David Crosby's musical legacy. It combines reflection and freshness, remembrance and renewal. A collection of songs that doesn't loudly call attention to itself, but quietly and consistently touches the heart – in the spirit of the man who always preferred to speak between the notes rather than over them. A true gift for connoisseurs, fans and anyone who wants to be touched by honest music.