Strand of Oaks (aka Tim Showalter) just released his new album Miracle Focus on Western Vinyl, and it finds him branching out from his usual indie folk rock vibes in favor of psychedelic synths, dancey beatwork, meditative ambience, and more, with a couple songs that do incorporate his acoustic guitar into this new direction. It’s an album that’s joyful and unpredictable, and it still feels like a Strand of Oaks album, despite being such a drastic pivot away from the type of instrumentation that Tim is best known for. You can read more about it in Notable Releases, and Tim also made us a list of 10 songs that inspired the album. It’s a very eclectic list, and he had a lot of interesting stuff to say about each one. Read on to hear about it from Tim himself.
Strand of Oaks are also heading out on tour this month, including two shows at NYC’s Mercury Lounge on June 29 (6 PM and 9 PM). All dates are listed at the bottom of this post.
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10 Songs That Influenced Strand of Oaks’ Miracle Focus
Johnnie Frierson – “Miracles”
Heard this song on a particularly wonderful night of friends sharing music. My idea of heaven. This song started the entire conceptual journey of Miracle Focus. “Miracles, YOU CAN DO EM!”
Eefje De Visser – “Bitterzoet”
A few years ago on a very long European tour my Dutch friends introduced me to the music of Eefje De Visser and just put this song on repeat for month. I feel like a superhero when I hear the chorus hit. Absolute gold!
Jenny O – “You Are Loved Eternally”
Miracle Focus wouldn’t exist without the friendship and influence that Jenny had on my life. Jenny taught this wild minded rock dude to just take a breath and open myself up to peace and calm. This song is mantra of expansion and self care. You are Loved Eternally…AMEN Jenny, Amen.
Kim Krans – “MIRRORMIRROR”
I always wanted a sister growing up and luckily in my life I was given the blessing of Kim Krans friendship and mentorship. We’ve lived so much life over our decade plus friendship and grown so much. This song reduces me to a puddle of blissful tears of acceptance. Kim speaks straight from the heart of the universe.
Patrick Cowley – “Megatron Man” (Radio Edit)
I probably lost twenty pounds dancing my ass off to this song alone in my room. The elevation of the beat and the unstoppable force of well arranged synths. My absolute dream!
World Class Wreckin Cru – “Juice” (Edited)
Dr. Dre in absolute top form. I used this song/production as a guiding light making Miracle Focus. The entire LA 80’s electro scene is a treasure trove and some of the hottest music ever made. I can’t imagine Dr. Dre had a big budget making this record but it only proves his genius. Work with what you have and make that magic!!! J.U.I.C.E.!!!!!
Milton Nascimento – “Ponto de Encontro”
Milton Nascimento’s voice has been described as “a voz do Deus”…what God’s voice would sound like. I agree completely. Enjoy this audio journey of perfection and be blessed.
Quincy Jones – “The Dude”
Just put it on and move. Quincy in absolute top form. Bringing heaven to earth with this song.
Pharoah Sanders – “Love is Everywhere”
Only the true masters can laser focus the complexity of the universe into a simple truth. Love is Everywhere, YES PLEASE. Thank you Pharoah.
Alice Coltrane – “Om Shanti”
My life was forever changed when I truly opened my heart to the music and spirit of Alice Coltrane. This song was the key that opened that door. Alice Coltrane’s music exists in place in my life beyond description, I hope it can do the same for you.
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Listen to a playlist of all 10 songs:
Strand of Oaks — 2024 Tour Dates
6/21 – Austin, TX – Parish
6/27 – Arden, DE – Adren Gild Hall
6/29 – New York, NY – Mercury Lounge – Early show
6/29 – New York, NY – Mercury Lounge – Late show
7/13 – Los Angeles, CA – Zebulon
7/18 – Minneapolis, MN – 7th St. Entry
7/19 – Chicago, IL – The Empty Bottle
7/20 – Indianapolis, IN – The Hi Fi
7/21 – Milwaukee, WI – Cactus Club
9/13 – Enschede, NL – Metropool
9/14 – Middelkerke, BE – Leffingeleuren Festival
9/15 – Amsterdam, NL – Bitterzoet
9/17 – Groningen, NL – SPOT / De Oosterpoort
9/19 – Berlin, DE – Kantine am Berghain
9/20 – Utrecht, NL – Ekko
9/22 – London, UK – Omeara
9/24 – Brussels, BE – Ancienne Belgique