For the past few days, I've been in the Raleigh, North Carolina area where my mother now lives. It's also the state I lived in for five years, spending my college days in the coastal bungalow of Wilmington, NC. It was during these years that music carved its way into my blood and became my means of connection, inspiration and direction.

In this town, radio is a way of life and 98.3 The Penguin is the beating heart pumping out its sweet sounds to stores, cars and front-porch lovers throughout the city. Between radio and the plethora of live local shows, I discovered a whole new sector of music during these years and relished it all. One of my favorite NC discoveries was the Durham/Chapel Hill based band, Mount Moriah. 

The first song I ever heard of theirs was "Lament" a breakup song with an intro that reels you in and an ending that drops out too soon, leaving you yearning for more. Another jump-out favorite of mine from their self-titled debut album is "Social Wedding Rings." You can take a listen to both below:

During my time back in North Carolina, I've been revisiting their albums including "Calvander," a 3-song 7" that they released in October. The title track, which you can hear blow, will also be on their upcoming record How to Dance, out in February. 

Following its release, the band will be touring across North America with various supporting acts. For cities and our dates, visit their site here.

Thanks for the music, North Carolina. 

xxChris