The Civil Wars’ first album Barton Hollow was a mainstream smash hit for the country duo and they even recorded a track with Taylor Swift for The Hunger Games. However, Joy White and John Paul Williams’ future together was unknown after they cancelled tour dates last year. It looks like they were able to put their differences aside long enough to make a new album, which was announced today.
According to Entertainment Weekly, the group posted a message on their website saying that they have finished a self-titled new album that they hope to release in summer 2013. The album cover features a black and white plume of smoke and the band’s name written in an elegant font. It was also posted on Facebook.
When they cancelled their Australia and New Zealand tour dates, the two, who are married to other people, blamed “internal discord and irreconcilable differences of ambition” as the reason for the temporary split. Today, their statements do not make it clear if they have actually reconciled, though, notes USA Today.
“Patience is a virtue. Yours has been appreciated. Here's to the hope you consider it rewarded,” White wrote in her note.
Williams wrote a longer note to fans, saying, “I am very glad to say that new music is coming, and I am fiercely proud of this album. A lot of soul, sweat and tears went into its creation. I hope you feel the heart in each song, that it might connect with yours. We are each one of us, all journeying, learning and giving along this ever-evolving path.”
The Civil Wars were a surprise hit with their 2011 debut album, which won two Grammys. The group toured Europe with Adele and recorded “Safe and Sound” with Swift. They also joined T Bone Burnett for the A Place at the Table documentary soundtrack.
image: Facebook