Bombadil Announce Plans for Fifth Studio LP, ‘Hold On,’ Set for 2015 Release

Bombadil are one of the most important bands we've encountered in the last few years. We realize that's a bold statement to make right out of the gate, but after spending significant time immersed in their captivating blend of folk and indie pop rock, there is no other conclusion that we can make. It shouldn't come as a surprise, then, that we are beside ourselves with excitement to help announce Bombadil's highly-anticipated fifth studio album, 'Hold On,' will hit store shelves on March 24, 2015 (via Ramseur Records).

"Almost all Bombadil songs are true stories," multi-instrumentalist and vocalist Daniel Michalak told us when we premiered 'Amy's Friend,' the first track from 'Hold On.' "We don't really like making stuff up, so when you listen to this, realize it's based in truth."

It's that honesty and authenticity that first drew us into Bombadil's world; their songs are intentionally personal, but without any of the smugness or preconceived expectations you might find elsewhere in today's saturated music landscape. In a statement released today (Dec. 16), Michalak explains that authenticity by calling it a "unique sound," due to the various influences of each band member. "I get a lot of my inspiration from books and authors like Ernest Hemingway, Stephen King, Ronald Dahl and Shel Silverstein, and even church radio," he says. "James [Phillips, drums] and Stewart [Robinson, piano/ukelele] get their inspiration from music, science, math and computer programming. Go figure."

The North Carolina-based trio had 50 songs to choose from for 'Hold On,' and whittled that number down to 12 tracks; while they all will feel connected stylistically, as with past Bombadil efforts, the track list will be musically diverse.

To celebrate the release of the new record, Bombadil are planning a very special show at Cat's Cradle in Carrboro, N.C. on March 21. You can get ticket information here.

While pre-order information for 'Hold On' will be released soon, you can go ahead and purchase 'Amy's Friend' via iTunes to hold you over. If you missed our premiere of the track, don't worry -- listen to it below, and then check out the album artwork (take a step back and you might see something different in the cover's art):