While Cycamore are technically a new band, each member comes with the skill and expertise to ensure their place in the panetheon of legends. The Nashville band have released their take on the 2005 song, ‘Heart Of America’. Back then it was a fundraiser in the wake of Hurricane Katrina, but Cycamore sees that today we also need a reminder that unity is not just possible, but essential.
The members of Cycamore have talent and accolades coming out their ears. Drummer Eddie Bayers is one of Nashville’s top studio drummers, having worked with the likes of Vince Gill, George Strait, and Garth Brooks, among many others, and he has won the Academy of Country Music’s Drummer of the Year Award a record-breaking 14 times – the only drummer inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame. Meanwhile, guitarist Jeff King has recorded and toured with icons including Faith Hill, Johnny Cash, and Dave Matthews. Additionally, guitarist Pat McGrath has been a Nashville legend since the early 1990s, contributing to more than 100 releases, and best known for his acoustic guitar work with Dolly Parton and Carrie Underwood. Then you have pianist and producer, Dane Byrant, who has toured and recorded with Clint Black, Olivia Newton-John, and Dolly Parton, to name a few. Last, but certainly not least, bassist Mike Brignardello, could be called a true “session ace,” having played with a roster of artists as diverse as Amy Grant and Shania Twain, as well as being a founding member of the band Giant. Together as Cycamore, they bring an undeniable skill set that is unmatched anywhere.
Originally, ‘The Heart Of America’ was written to accompany NBC’s Habitat for Humanity fundraising campaign, successfully raising more than 100 million dollars, to rebuild homes for families affected by Hurricane Katrina. The song is a beacon of hope with its themes of harmony, and perseverance still speak to the US people today, and with wailing guitars, powerful drums, and gentle tambourine, it’s the perfect track for featured vocalist, Adam Cunningham’s soulful, impassioned delivery. We are reminded that even in this divisive era, unity is not just possible, but essential.
“In a time when we face so many challenges, we want to remind everyone of the threads that connect us all,” said Bryant, “our shared humanity and the love for this country.”
The music video for ‘Heart Of America’ shines a spotlight on those whose stories actually make the USA great. With an undeniable sense of urgency, it’s an anthem that combines studio footage of the passionate musicians in their element with the message of the song, that it’s up to everyone to make a difference and spark positive change. Cycamore believes the time has come to stand together again, not just to bring about a brighter future, but to also nurture each other and in so doing, thrive.
Watch the moving music video for ‘Heart Of America’ below, and find out more about Cycamore and their music online on their official website, YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram.
