Award-winning singer-songwriter Mike Kuster wades into Bluegrass, a genre he loves and spend so much time enjoying, with the release of his first Bluegrass single, “Distant Trains.”
“Distant Trains” pairs Kuster’s signature storytelling prowess with masterful production and instrumental contributions. The song’s evocative lyrics and dynamic instrumentation capture the essence of traditional Bluegrass.
Kuster reflects that the song’s inspiration truly is the trains on the old B&O rail lines that run through his home of Frederick County. “The trains clacking along the tracks and the distant horns were just part of the environment on our farm,” he explained.
“I am blessed to have grown up listening to so much Bluegrass, and then really stumbling upon a musical relationship with such a talented friend in Michael Cleveland,” said Kuster. “His deep understanding of Bluegrass and his incredible talent helped bring ‘Distant Trains’ to life in a way I could have only dreamed.”
“Michael has played on all of my albums. In preparation for my new album, we were going over some songs I had written and would be recording in the studio. I sent him the demo I made of ‘Distant Trains’, and told him it is more of a Bluegrass song than anything I’d done before. Michael agreed and we forged ahead with producing my first Bluegrass song.”
Kuster has built a dedicated following in the independent country and Americana music scenes, earning accolades such as Independent Music Network’s 2024 Songwriter of the Year. With “Distant Trains,” he takes a bold step into the Bluegrass arena, bringing his heartfelt songwriting and rich vocals to a whole new audience.
“Distant Trains” will be available on all streaming platforms on May 9, 2025, and has already been receiving airplay on radio stations around the country and around the globe. The track can be pre-ordered or pre-saved at https://mikekuster.net/trains. Radio stations can find the track on PlayMPE, CDX Nashville, Airplay Access, or HotDisc for download.
Fans can stay updated on Mike Kuster’s music and upcoming performances by visiting https://mikekuster.net or following him on social media, links at https://mikekuster.net/links.