Caleb Klauder & Reeb Willms
Life is so fleeting, so why all the hurting and cheating
When all that we gain is a sad country song
Hailing from the lush landscapes of Washington State, Caleb Klauder from the coastal San Juan Islands and Reeb Willms from the high desert plateau of Douglas County, this duo has carved out a unique niche in the Americana realm, celebrated for their charismatic performances and deeply-rooted musical style that blends classic country, bluegrass, old-time, and Cajun influences. On November 15th, the pair will release their new album, Gold In Your Pocket, via Free Dirt Records.
Klauder and Willms are known to roots music fans across the globe for their soulful harmonies, driving dance tunes, and commitment to the raw truth of rural American music. Their music is a refreshing departure from the often sorrowful themes found in traditional music, offering instead a celebration of life’s experiences and the simple beauty of human connection. With an uplifting sound and a fierce commitment to authentic storytelling, their music lives at the true crossroads of Americana. "Country music is our soul music," says Klauder. "It is the way we can tell stories, express deep emotions, and help others feel their joys and pains through song."
Gold In Your Pocket, recorded in the music hubs of Louisiana and Nashville, is infused with the sound and spirit of both of those iconic places. The duo’s pared-down style draws from bluegrass instrumentation, supplemented by pedal steel and electric guitar, channeling classic country duos of old. As a vocally-led band, they focus on the art of harmony and often filter their creations through the lens of dance, honoring the traditions of country and honky-tonk music. From their hands and voices to their audiences’ ears, Klauder and Willms craft rhythms that compel listeners to move. The result is spellbinding.
In "All About Love," Willms captures the essence of music as a communal experience. The song emerged spontaneously after a night of leading sing-alongs, where Willms realized the profound joy in songs that everyone knows and can sing together. The second verse is a heartfelt tribute to a dear friend who passed away too soon, serving as a poignant reminder to focus on what truly matters in life. As Willms puts it, "It’s all about love, y’all, and being right really isn’t important."
The title track, inspired by a Maurice Sendak drawing that has been a fixture in Klauder’s mother’s home for decades, is a tender, two-stepping ode to offering support to a loved one facing struggles. Klauder sees it as a love song, not just for a partner, but for anyone you want to be there for in difficult times. The song invites listeners to quiet their minds and listen to their hearts, letting love guide them rather than trying to push through life’s challenges alone. Klauder’s "Too Far Gone," another song that inspires a turn on the dance floor, reflects on the risks of losing one’s way, both physically and metaphorically. Composed in just 20 minutes, the song captures the restless nature of the mind when given time to wander, turning simple thoughts into profound reflections on the potential consequences of our choices.
For years, Klauder and Willms were at the heart of Portland, Oregon’s vibrant music scene, leading both the underground country revival and the burgeoning square dance and Appalachian string band movements with the Foghorn Stringband. When they take the stage, their honest incantations, sharply-written songs, and un-showy authenticity strike a rich vein that makes them seem like they were born and raised in Music City. Yet, their roots remain deeply planted in the Pacific Northwest, where they continue to carry the torch of their music with an ear towards the deepest songs and an eye towards good times. Their music is a testament to the enduring power of love, connection, and the timeless sound of American roots music.
Learn more about Caleb Klauder & Reeb Willms on their website.
