Fruition from left to right: Jeff Leonard (bass), Jay Cobb Anderson (vocals, guitar, harmonica), Kellen Asebroek (vocals, guitar, piano), Mimi Naja (vocals, mandolin, guitar), Tyler Thompson (drums, banjo)—photo by Jessie McCallFruition’s fifth studio album solidifies their transformation from a bluegrass outfit to a full-fledged rock band. Hiring Portland producer Tucker Martine (My Morning Jacket, The Decemberists, Modest Mouse, R.E.M.), the band showcase what they can do with their highest production value to date. The record’s analog sound brings warmth and shows off a newfound sonic maturity that feels like home for the five-piece. With three powerful songwriters and lead singers, each wielding their own personal experiences, Watching It All Fall Apart (out February 2) is about working together to yield beautiful results in a time of cultural division and political turmoil. Gearing up for the release, Fruition headlined a two-night New Year’s Eve run at the Crystal Ballroom—see more photos by Blake Sourisseau from December 30 and 31 here. Let’s see how they got along...
