Australian singer-songwriter Grace Cummings showcased her powerful vocal prowess in a recent appearance on NPR's World Cafe, discussing her new album, Ramona. Released on September 9, 2024, the album represents a significant evolution from her previous work, particularly her 2022 album, Storm Queen. Produced by Jonathan Wilson and recorded in Topanga Canyon, California, Ramona features arrangements that elevate the emotional intensity of Cummings' voice, described as sounding like it was launched into the universe, accumulating depth and expression along the way.
In the World Cafe session, Cummings detailed her artistic vision for Ramona, expressing a desire to create a larger-sounding record. She also revealed that Bob Dylan's song "To Ramona" inspired the title track, linking her work to a rich musical heritage. Throughout the episode, Cummings emphasized the importance of capturing raw emotion in songwriting, asserting that this ability is innate.
The episode features a playlist including standout tracks such as "On and On" and "Common Man". Produced and edited by Miguel Perez, with additional contributions from senior producer Kimberly Junod and sound engineer Chris Williams, listeners can catch the full session on NPR.
The album is expected to resonate with both existing fans and new listeners, further establishing Cummings as a significant voice in contemporary music.