At Echo Mountain Recording, we spend a lot of time hearing songs long before anyone else does. There are months, and often years, between the first take and release day, which makes watching these records finally make their way into the world especially rewarding.

Here's a look at some of the albums and singles that have emerged from our rooms so far in 2026.

Steep Canyon Rangers, Next Act

Released May 22 on Yep Roc Records, Next Act finds Steep Canyon Rangers leaning back into the bluegrass traditions that first brought them together while continuing to push their songwriting forward. The band's 15th studio album features appearances from Steve Martin, Edie Brickell, and Celia Woodsmith, and was recorded at Echo Mountain by Julian Dreyer and produced by Mike Ashworth alongside the band. It is one of those records that sounds effortless, but carries decades of experience behind every note.

Favorite tracks so far include "Heart's the Only Compass," "Circling the Drain," and the title track, "Next Act."

Mt. Kili, The Noticer

One of our favorites of the year, The Noticer from Mt. Kili arrived this spring as a thoughtful collection of folk songs that rewards repeat listens. The album was recorded here and engineered by Julian Dreyer, capturing a sound that feels intimate, warm, and unhurried. Several writers have already singled it out as one of the stronger folk releases of 2026.

If you missed this one when it quietly appeared earlier this year, now is a good time to give it your attention.

Redbud, REDBUD BLUEGRASS

Western North Carolina's Redbud released their new EP this summer, adding another homegrown project to a busy year for the studio. The band continues building momentum around a sound rooted in Appalachian bluegrass traditions while finding room for fresh arrangements and textures.

Songs From The Road Band, Just HANGING ON

Songs From The Road Band also returned in 2026 with their newest album, Just Hanging On, bringing their trademark mix of bluegrass virtuosity and road tested musicianship back into the spotlight. Recorded with Julian Dreyer and Charlie Chamberlain, the album reflects both the band’s growth and their deep roots in the bluegrass tradition. If you've seen them live, you already know how much of an atmosphere they bring to every performance.

New Singles

Several Echo Mountain artists have kept the release calendar moving with new singles this year.

•Nate Hadley released a new track, “Carolina Girls,” showcasing his sharp songwriting and unmistakable voice.

• Sainte Jane shared two new singles, “I Will Rest” and “See You In a Little While” leading up to their 2026 album that is heartfelt and inspirational.

• Hustle Souls delivered another dose of their brass band funk sound with a super fresh June drop, “Clementine.”

The Wilder Blue

Texas based band The Wilder Blue continues gaining national attention in 2026. Their recent eight song introduction with Whiskey Riff offers a great entry point for listeners unfamiliar with the group and highlights why they have become one of the most talked about bands in modern country and Americana circles.

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On the Road in 2026

The songs may begin inside our walls, but they eventually belong to audiences.

So far this year, Echo Mountain artists have been crisscrossing the country, appearing in theaters, clubs, amphitheaters, and festivals from coast to coast.

Steep Canyon Rangers are touring extensively behind Next Act, including festival appearances, and performances at venues throughout the Southeast and beyond.

Elsewhere, artists with deep ties to Echo Mountain have also spent much of 2026 on the road, including Empire Strikes Brass, Durand Jones, Band of Horses, and The War on Drugs.

There is still a lot of year left, and we know there are more announcements coming. We'll keep updating this list as more records leave the nest.

So Far in 2026: New Music From Echo Mountain Artists