Samuel Ervin Beam, the folk singer who performs as Iron & Wine, has described the voice of Fiona Apple as “a miracle that sounds like both a sacrifice and a weapon at the same time.” It’s a typically poetic description but nothing can really prepare you for “All in Good Time,” the beautiful new duet between the two singers. From its first notes of acoustic guitar and poignant piano, it’s instantly reminiscent of the classic country and folk-rock records of the 70’s. Beam says the iconic duets between Tammy Wynette and George Jones and Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers inspired the song. Apple sounds stunning, as her deep voice takes on a wearied, thoughtful tone. It’s a rare appearance from the legendarily elusive singer-songwriter, whose last album Fetch the Bolt Cutters was an unforgettable musical highlight of 2020.
“All in Good Time” is the second single from the upcoming Iron & Wine album, Light Verse, which Sub Pop will release on April 26th. The first, “You Never Know,” utilized a similarly stirring mixture of strings, piano, and guitar to back Beam’s incredible voice. Since the release of his last full length album in 2017, Beast Epic, Beam has released a variety of interesting projects. He has collaborated with Macie Stewart and Sima Cunningham on the EP Lori, dug into his vault with the Archive Series No. 5: Tallahassee Recordings, and dropped the soundtrack to a documentary Who Can See Forever, about the artist himself. Beginning in June, he’ll embark on a huge tour which includes a stop at Philly’s Fillmore on August 10th. More information can be found at WXPN’s Concert Calendar; listen to the new single below.