Prince Billy announces live album feat Samhain

Ghosts of American Psychonauts: Bonnie ‘Prince’ Billy Takes the Stage for a Live Revelation

Bonnie ‘Prince’ Billy, Will Oldham, is gearing up for a deeply personal and immersive experience with his new live album, Ghosts of American Psychonauts. Recorded over Valentine’s Day weekend 2025 at The Pico Union Project in Los Angeles, this release serves as a journey deep into the essence of storytelling, blending intimate performance with expansive sonic landscapes.

The album itself is a masterclass in musical narrative. It features reworkings of material from Ghosts of American Psychonauts, offering fresh perspectives on familiar tracks, alongside beloved classics like I See A Darkness and Strange Form of Life. The result is a collection that demands to be heard, allowing the music itself to construct its own undeniable sense.

The project was brought to life through an incredible assembly of talent. Oldham teamed up with musicians such as Thomas Deakin (clarinet and down-tuned electric guitar) and Jacob Duncan (flute and saxophone), alongside stellar guests including Emmett Kelly, Ryder McNair, Dv DeVincentis, Patrick Shiroishi, and the producer of The Purple Bird, Dave Ferguson, who contributed to a rendition of “Downstream.”

One standout piece from the release is the first single, a haunting performance of “London May.” This version features the actual London May of Samhain played on drums, lending the track an ethereal quality that is both evocative and deeply moving.

Oldham describes the recording process as a cathartic push-and-pull, noting that the musicians on stage are experts at telling stories musically, creating liveable real spaces for the audience to inhabit. He emphasizes that music, when shared live, becomes the ultimate meeting point where friends and family connect.

As Oldham continues his journey through this newly recorded material, he remains on the move. The live experience is poised to continue with a robust tour schedule stretching from this week through January 2027, including a highly anticipated stop at the Brooklyn Folk Festival on November 8th.

The tracklist for Ghosts of American Psychonauts includes powerful pieces such as Sometimes it’s Hard to Breathe, Shorty’s Ark, London May, Downstream, Strange Form of Life, This is Far From Over, Trees of Hell, and I See a Darkness.

Fans looking to follow this sonic exploration can anticipate new live music throughout the coming months, promising an opportunity to witness the raw, honest storytelling that defines Bonnie ‘Prince’ Billy’s unique artistry on the road.