Whiton’s journey is blissful
James Whiton is out of his dark place. And the result can be heard on his new album, “Perchance to Dream.” “It follows a journey and it’s one that mirrors a personal experience of going into a very dark place in my life,” he says. “And then finding redemption and not turning away from the darkness.”
Whiton’s new album is being released today. After being signed to Cinder Cone Media Worldwide in 2016, Whiton began recording the album in June and tracked it until August.
“This is the first time in my life that I’ve made a record this way,” he says. “Usually I go in and record for a couple days.”
Whiton worked with Howard Wulkan at Albuquerque-based Cinder Cone.
“He gave me the opportunity to make a record like the big boys do,” he says. “I took home the tracks and I listened to them. It began to take shape and it’s a journey.”
Whiton returned to the Duke City a few years ago after spending 17 years travelling the country performing music.
During his time away, he shared the stage with Tom Waits, George Clinton and the Reverend
Horton Heat.
For his show at Meow Wolf in Santa Fe tonight, Whiton will perform his entire album.
Though it’s a release party of sorts, he will be performing first.
“I decided to open for one of my favorite bands Leeches of Lore,” he says. “Usually when I do shows, I don’t get a chance to see the other bands because I’m too nervous and waiting to take the stage. This time I will get to enjoy all of it.”
Though the new album is about Whiton’s own personal journey, he wants listeners to make their own opinion.
He says it’s important not to box in listeners. “What’s great about this album is there is plenty of room to come to your own conclusions,” he says. “I feel like I’m at my best on this album. It feels great to have this ready for the world.”