How Small We Are

"How Small We Are" builds on the momentum of Nolan McKelvey's "Forward", about which Americana Highways wrote, “His voice is inspired and his reliance on poignancy is admirable”. Rootstime compared him to singer songwriters such as David Gray, Ryan Adams, and Damien Rice. Blaskan stated, “Somehow these songs glide away towards the forest and meadows of beauty”.

Since the release of "Forward", Nolan was recognized in the U.S. press as one of 15 distinguished artists from the Lansing, Michigan, area by his hometown newspaper, the Lansing State Journal. He was previously dubbed, “Central to the Boston roots rock revival” by WBUR Radio, “Flagstaff’s Poet Laureate”, and “One of the best songwriters in the southwest” by FlagLive. At home, Phoenix New Times called his music “relaxing” and “wistful” with an emphasis on the lyrics and songwriting.

The new record, "How Small We Are", includes appearances from some of the most talented musicians in the Phoenix area, including Jesse Valenzuela (Gin Blossoms on 2 & 9), Jon Rauhouse (Neko Case, Old 97’s, Sunpunchers on 2 & 10), Nick Sterling (Wyves on 6, 7, & 9), and Stephanie Groot (Mark Zubia Trio, Dusty Ramblers on violin on 4 & 7). Nolan imported old friend, Mandy Fer (Sway Wild) for the vocal duet “Anam Cara” (3), and longtime friend and former bandmate Tim Kelly (The Benders, The Resophonics) to play dobro (7 & 8).

"How Small We Are" was recorded at the Tone Kitchen in Tempe, Arizona. Produced by the core band of PH Naffah (Roger Clyne & The Peacemakers), Jeff Lusby-Breault (Enormodome), and Nolan McKelvey.

McKelvey penned all 10 tracks, played all upright and electric bass, acoustic guitar, and performed all lead and harmony vocals.