A spirited country-rock gem from the Tigers Blood sessions. Blending raw storytelling with brisk melodies, the track offers a fresh yet familiar glimpse into Katie Crutchfield’s evocative songwriting.
Waxahatchee, the project of singer-songwriter Katie Crutchfield, has unveiled “Mud,” a previously unreleased track from the Tigers Blood recording sessions. Released on February 4, 2025, the song offers a glimpse into the raw, introspective facets of Crutchfield’s songwriting that didn’t make the final album cut.
Clocking in at just over two minutes, “Mud” is a lively country-rock piece that showcases Crutchfield’s signature blend of indie rock rhythms and Americana textures. The track features contributions from her Tigers Blood ensemble, including MJ Lenderman on electric guitar and backing vocals, Spencer Tweedy on drums and backing vocals, Brad Cook on bass, and Phil Cook on banjo and piano.
Lyrically, “Mud” delves into the complexities of personal relationships, with Crutchfield’s evocative storytelling painting vivid images of emotional struggle and self-reflection. The song’s brisk tempo and engaging melody provide a compelling contrast to its introspective lyrics, resulting in a track that is both thought-provoking and sonically appealing.
Critics have noted that while “Mud” shares thematic elements with the songs on Tigers Blood, its distinct sound and perspective set it apart, offering listeners a fresh angle on Crutchfield’s artistic expression. The song has been described as a fusion of her earlier DIY folk roots with the more polished country-rock style of her recent work, creating a unique blend that is quintessentially Waxahatchee.
In addition to releasing “Mud,” Waxahatchee has announced a series of tour dates, including performances at the Outlaw Music Festival alongside Willie Nelson, Bob Dylan, and Sheryl Crow, as well as a U.S. tour with Wilco.
Overall, “Mud” serves as a testament to Crutchfield’s versatility and depth as a songwriter, offering fans a deeper look into the creative process behind Tigers Blood and further solidifying her place in the contemporary Americana and indie music scenes.
For those interested in experiencing the song firsthand, the official audio is available on YouTube:
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