Boston sextet lean into rowdy alt-country and folk-punk momentum on new five-track release
Kier Byrnes & The Kettle Burners return with Moonshine & Other Spirits, a new EP released March 27, 2026. The Boston-based Americana band builds on their recent run of momentum, delivering a five-track project that pushes their high-energy sound further into overdrive.
The EP arrives shortly after the group was named Americana Artist of the Year at the 2025 Boston Music Awards, marking their first new release since that win. Known for their relentless live presence and fast-paced instrumentation, the band continues to lean into a style that blends alt-country grit with folk-punk drive.
At the center of the release is lead single “My Baby’s Happy,” which features guest vocals from Boston artist Elisa Smith. The track stands out with a tight, hypnotic structure and a strong melodic pull, while still carrying the band’s signature intensity. Accordion and electric guitar interplay drive the arrangement, giving it a sharp and immediate feel.
Across the EP, the Kettle Burners expand their sonic range without stepping away from their core identity. The lineup — built around guitar, accordion, washboard, bass, and drums — creates a dense but kinetic sound. Fast picking, punchy rhythms, and layered textures keep the energy high throughout.
The project includes three original songs alongside two covers, pulling from the catalog of Robert Earl Keen and Tyler Childers. Rather than reworking them into something distant, the band folds these tracks into their own style, capturing the loose, live energy that defines their shows.
There is also a strong sense of atmosphere behind the release. The EP draws from off-grid recording moments and late-night sessions, shaping a tone that feels both raw and immersive. That environment feeds directly into the music’s restless and unpolished edge.
With Moonshine & Other Spirits, Kier Byrnes & The Kettle Burners continue to position themselves as one of the most active and driven Americana acts in their scene. The release keeps their momentum moving forward while setting up a busy year of new music and live shows.
Listen to "Don't Let Perfect" from the band's 2026 NPR Tiny Desk Concert:
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