In an exciting musical collaboration, Saul Williams and Carlos Niño are preparing to unveil their inaugural joint album, titled 'Saul Williams Meets Carlos Niño & Friends at TreePeople,' scheduled for release on August 28th. This highly anticipated project has already offered a glimpse into its unique sound with the debut of 'Sound Then Words,' an expansive track spanning 16 minutes. The recording process for this album was a distinctive event, taking place live and improvisational beneath the black oak and walnut trees of Coldwater Canyon Park in Los Angeles on December 18, 2024. This outdoor session, facilitated by Noah Klein of Living Earth in collaboration with the TreePeople conservation organization, marked a significant first for both artists, whose friendship spans back to the late 1990s. The record features an impressive ensemble of musicians curated by Niño, including the talents of Nate Mercereau, Aaron Shaw, Andres Renteria, Maia, Francesca Heart, and Kamasi Washington.
To support this innovative release, Williams and Niño are embarking on a co-headlining tour this autumn. The tour is set to commence on September 27th at the Walk the Block Festival in Seattle, with performances continuing until November 15th, culminating at the Le Guess Who? Festival in Utrecht, Netherlands. Notable stops on their itinerary include an appearance at the Pitchfork Festival in London, alongside two special engagements at the TreePeople venue in Los Angeles, returning to the site of their album's unique genesis.
Both artists bring a rich history of diverse musical and artistic endeavors to this collaboration. Saul Williams has recently gained acclaim for his role as preacher Jedidiah Moore in Ryan Coogler’s film 'Sinners.' His extensive musical background includes collaborations with renowned artists such as Nine Inch Nails, Janelle Monáe, Pharrell Williams, and Denzel Curry. Furthermore, Williams showcased his theatrical prowess by starring in 'Holler If Ya Hear Me,' a Broadway production featuring the music of Tupac Shakur. Carlos Niño, a prominent Los Angeles-based musician and producer, is celebrated for his significant contributions to various projects, most notably his work with André 3000, where both artists featured on the latter's recent LP, 'New Blue Sun.' Their combined experiences promise a compelling and original musical offering.
This forthcoming album and accompanying tour represent a fascinating convergence of creative energies, pushing artistic boundaries through an organic, improvisational approach. The unique recording environment and the synergy between these two esteemed musicians, complemented by a talented collective of guest artists, promise an immersive and unforgettable auditory experience for listeners. The tour provides a vital opportunity for fans to witness the live manifestation of this remarkable partnership.