Singer-songwriter plans album release party

Fresh off a western states tour as a headlining performer at the Denver Oktoberfest, singer/songwriter/guitarist Mike Murray will give a free performance in Whitefish to release his new rock/blues album, “Balance and Rhythm.”

The show starts at 9 p.m. Oct. 25 at Crush.

Christian Johnson of Mission Mountain Wood Band says of Murray’s new album: "I loved his debut album but there's WAY more edge to this one! Powerful and more focused to today's pulse and energy. Really looking forward to doing some shows with him this year!"

After touring Europe, and the United States from coast to coast in support of his debut solo release, “International,” Murray returned to his studio in Kalispell, where he crafted a new batch of songs. Working with producers and engineers from Emmy- and Grammy-winning Immersive Studios, based out of Boulder, Colo., Murray chose and recorded five of those songs for “Balance and Rhythm.”

With influences such as The Black Keys, Led Zeppelin, Jimi Hendrix, Muse and the White Stripes, Murray’s new album explores a grittier and higher energy soundscape, leaving some of the gentler acoustic sensibilities behind with “International.”

In order to achieve the sound of “Balance and Rhythm” for live performance, Murray will be joined on stage by Montana bassist Chris Krager and drummer Mark Miller.

“Living in Montana is important to me,” Murray says. “I love the lifestyle, and I love the people. My family and some of my closest friends are here.

“I’m excited to put on a free show for them and support a great music venue, Crush Lounge. I can’t wait for people to hear the new album and see the new live show. It’s like nothing I’ve ever done before.”

“Balance and Rhythm” will be available for purchase at the concert for the first time in Montana.

Crush is located at 124 Central Ave., Whitefish. Call the lounge at (406) 730-1030.

For more information about the event, contact Murray’s management, Ryan Hudson, at booking@mikemurraytunes.com. For more information about Murray, visit  www.mikemurraytunes.com.