Nashville, TN (July 29, 2024)— Introducing an undeniable, multi-faceted trio of talent, Oh Boy Records is honored to announce the signing of Virginia-based band Palmyra to their roster of recording artists. Palmyra, named one of NPR’s “Best New Artists of 2024,” is a unique blend of traditional folk string instruments, lush harmony, and earnest songwriting. Their sound, often described as a distant cousin to The Avett Brothers and the Wood Brothers, nods toward Appalachian and Midwestern Americana, with intricate arrangements that create the illusion of a full, larger-than-three ensemble. Jody Whelan and Fiona Whelan Prine joined the band on stage during their set at the legendary Newport Folk Festival to announce the band’s addition. Oh Boy is set to release the band’s 2023 6-song EP, Belladonna, on vinyl, with new music slated for release in 2025.
Click HERE to purchase Belladonna.
“We’re so excited to welcome Palmyra to Oh Boy! The energy and vitality of their performances grab you right away, but what really stays with you is the depth of their songwriting – songs that tackle the struggle to make sense of yourself and the world around you,” says Jody Whelan, Managing Partner, Oh Boy Records. “I think they’ve been able to resonate with audiences so deeply because of the honesty and vulnerability in their songs. This is music that is much needed in the world.”
“To say we’re proud to be signed to Oh Boy would be an understatement. It’s the honor of a lifetime to be brought into the Prime family fold through a label and legacy that we consider to be a North Star for acknowledging the power and importance of great art,” says Palmyra’s Sasha Landon.
“Since its inception with John, Oh Boy has always championed honest, intentional, damn good songwriting, and we are honored that they’re holding us in that same reverence as the folks we look up to – Arlo, Dan, Kelsey, Swamp Dogg, Tré, Emily, and of course, John. What a gift,” added the band, who have opened for Watchhouse, Mipso, and Illiterate Light.
Established in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley and now based in Richmond, Palmyra captures the collective spirit of three Virginia natives, Teddy Chipouras, Manoa Bell, and Sasha Landon. The breakout folk trio has worked diligently to cement themselves as an unmistakable force in the Americana music landscape at large. Their forward momentum is propelled by their craftsmanship and dedication to an intimate performance experience; at the heart of Palmyra is the evident love and regard that the three musicians share for each other and their craft. Their hard work has been recognized by institutions including the historic Newport Folk Festival, American Songwriter, The Boston Globe, NPR, Under The Radar Magazine, Americanafest, and Merlefest. They were named one of NPR’s “Best New Artists of 2024,” a testament to their talent and dedication.
CRITICAL ACCLAIM FOR PALMYRA
“Public Radio’s Favorite New Artists of 2024 (So Far)” – NPR
“There’s chaos and catharsis and so much passion. I think it’s kind of impossible not to be moved by it.” – Robin Hilton, NPR, All Songs Considered
“Palmyra is one of those bands you discover and can’t help but continue to come back to. They are not easily forgotten. They write lyrics that are poetic while being relatable – a duality that is not easy to accomplish.” – The Bluegrass Situation
“…balanc[ing] melancholic yearning with intimate beauty, crafting a dance of lovely harmony and unadorned instrumentation.” – Under the Radar Magazine
“As most great musicians have the ability to do, they have me something I didn’t know I needed until I heard it.” – Spencer George, Good Folk
Their (Sasha Landon’s) voice drips with beautiful desperation, every single word holding an earnestness you don’t find just anywhere anymore.” – The Alternative, 2023
“The band’s onstage bond is as tight as any you’ll find — a three-person machine that was fine-tuned during lockdown live streams.” – Style Weekly, Richmond
You can catch the Palmyra on tour throughout the rest of the summer and into the fall. Follow the band on Instagram and TikTok, and visit https://www.palmyratheband.com/ for tour dates, tickets, and more information.