In the face of turbulence, a simple promise planted the seed for Glass Dove.
Before Josh Benus assumed this musical identity, the Nashville-based indie rock artist found himself faced with a series of challenges. In 2012, an emergency surgery took a dangerous turn that left Josh in critical condition. He encountered severe complications that led to an unexpectedly arduous recovery. After some agonizing months of healing, he taught himself how to sing again. “Lucky to be alive,” the next five years twisted and turned at high speed. Josh’s health, as well as relationships, would further deteriorate before the storm finally passed.
“After my experiences, I made a pact with myself,” he admits. “I decided there was no plan B — It became clear to me how quick this could all disappear, and that there was no better time than now, to seriously pursue my art.”
After a hiatus from music, Josh commenced writing. Serendipitously, producer Owen Biddle [The Roots, John Legend] approached him in early 2018. They then retreated to the Smoky Mountains for a week of writing and recording.
“All of these things were about to boil over,” he admits. “The only way I could deal with them was to immortalize them in song. There was nothing more cathartic for me than being able to distill the bittersweet nature of the past five years into something uplifting.”
Debut single ‘Cigarette Sunset’ featuring Liz Cooper highlights glitchy percussion bristles against the reverb of a heavenly harmony between Liz and Josh, as the track climaxes on an elegant and entrancing hook steeped in intoxicating nostalgia.
Latest release ‘Terrible Secrets’ is about those in power who divide us to maintain their privilege and how our inaction gives voice to “terrible secrets”. Benus reveals, “I’ve given up counting the number of mornings that I’ve read the news and come away feeling helpless. I had no plans to write a political song, but I knew I had to do something to engage in the conversation and be a voice for those who don’t have one. This song is about those in power who divide us to maintain their privilege, and how our inaction gives voice to ‘Terrible Secrets’”. Produced by Owen Biddle along with Josh Kaler [Butch Walker] ‘Terrible Secrets’ features powerful lyrics, melancholy instrumentation and soaring ethereal harmonies, creating a deeply thought-provoking release.
Benus continues his path towards new personal and musical adventures. As a meditation on life’s shadows, as an example of rock-solid craftsmanship and freewheeling imagination, he’s bringing listeners along with him as Glass Dove. ‘Terrible Secrets’ is currently available worldwide.
Listen to Terrible Secrets on Spotify
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