Kevin Coleman moved to Nashville from Virginia a few years ago to study music at Belmont University. He became frustrated with the program and left, focusing his energy on guitar playing and creating unique compositions. I saw Kevin play a few times around town. He always played solo, and his style reminded me of early Peter Lang. Eventually, I asked him to send me some music when he had some. Shortly after, he sent me some demos. I was blown away. This was no Peter Lang type of affair. It was much more full, something I describe as a collage of fingerstyle guitar, progressive composition, Appalachian vibes, and motorik drive.
Imaginary Conversations is certainly a release that exists in the same musical conversations being carried out these days by the likes of Jon Camp, Magic Tuber Stringband, and just about every project involving Mike Gangloff.
Jon Camp is actually someone who has been familiar with Kevin’s playing for a few years. Camp believes,
"Imaginary Conversations is an important album for Kevin. It’s exploratory, expansive, and fun, tapping into Kevin’s wide-ranging influences while making sense as a cohesive statement that is uniquely Kevin. It’s an album that will get repeated listens from me."
Imaginary Conversations goes up for preorder on February 8th, with "Mammut Americanum" serving as the lead single. The album will be released March 19th on cassette, CD, and in digital format.
I recently sat down with Kevin to discuss his music and craft, his influences, and how this album came together. Check out the conversation below, as well as the accompanying playlist Kevin curated for the occasion (Tidal / Spotify).