Daphne Parker Powell describes her latest single as a “very unsubtle” nod to Anaïs Nin, the French-born American writer known for her titillating short stories and erotica.
“We can’t help loving who we love,” says the award-winning singer, songwriter and producer. “As we learn our lessons, we refine what we’re willing to tolerate and for how long, but that doesn’t stop us loving. We walk through the heart, each chamber like a room where we pin up our butterflies even when they cease to flutter.”
“Scorched Earth & The Flood” is a lilting first taste from Powell’s seventh LP, The Death Of Cool (Pleasure Loves Company). Produced by Squirrel Nut Zippers’ Jimbo Mathus and engineered and mixed by Ani DiFranco’s Grammy-winning husband, Mike Napolitano, the album features guest appearances from Eric “Roscoe” Ambel (Del Lords, Bottle Rockets) and various Zippers and Preservation Hall regulars.
Its 10 tracks span folk, country, jazz and theatrical pop with an intimacy and authenticity that can only come from someone who’s successfully negotiated a surplus of life’s curveballs. Raised amid the Appalachian foothills in an old-time family band, Powell has survived divorce and cancer. She’s lived in Brooklyn, sailed around the world, owned a record store and label, and hosted festivals and concerts.
The Death Of Cool is Powell’s first release since 2022’s The Starter Wife. And while the title of that album pretty much speaks for itself, she strikes a more reflective and conciliatory tone on her latest LP.
“In a way, this new song may be the true heart of the album—the journeying that brings you finally to yourself,” she says.
We’re proud to premiere Daphne Parker Powell’s “Scorched Earth & The Flood.” The Death Of Cool is out May 22.
—Hobart Rowland
See Daphne Parker Powell live.
