Mike Thomas Taps Into Essence Of Appalachia On New Concept LP ‘Echoes’

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Mike Thomas. Photo: Jeremy Harris

Mike Thomas will release his new concept album, Echoes, on Sept, 25. In advance of the project he has released a new single, “Cold River Runnin’.”

“Cold River Runnin’ finds Thomas’ central character desperately trying to outrun unimaginable loss while discovering that home, and the memories it holds, is impossible to leave behind. The song serves as one of the emotional turning points on Echoes, a cinematic collection that traces one man’s journey through grief, addiction, faith and ultimately redemption. “Cold River Runnin'” follows previously released tracks “Hell in High Water” and the haunting follow-up “Tailwaters.”

“‘Cold River Runnin’’ was the final song written for my album, Echoes,” says Thomas. “I felt the album needed a turning point – a spot where our character reaches his breaking point. I also wanted to capture a bit of the essence of Appalachia. There is a gravitational pull to this place, an unspoken, ancestral spirit that draws you in. It’s hard to define, and even harder to leave behind. I discussed this idea with Tres Sasser (producer) and we ultimately ended up writing this one together. We have collaborated in the studio and on stage for years, but this song marks our first co-write.”

Knoxville native Thomas returned to songwriting after stepping away from music for more than a decade to raise a family and build a business, and that return eventually led to “Hell in High Water,” inspired by the devastation Hurricane Helene left across Appalachia. The overwhelming response to that song revealed there was still more of the story left to tell. Rather than rushing into another record, Thomas spent months reflecting before the songs that would become Echoes began taking shape in rapid succession.

More than a collection of songs, Echoes unfolds as a cohesive narrative. Beginning in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, the album follows a grieving husband and father through despair, addiction and hopelessness before ultimately finding healing through faith, family and the enduring spirit of Appalachia. The album blends Americana, country, Appalachian folk and gospel influences into a sweeping musical journey rooted in authentic storytelling.

Echoes Track Listing: 
1. “Hell in High Water” (Mike Thomas)
2. “Undertow” (Mike Thomas)
3. “Echoes” (Mike Thomas, Nick Powell)
4. “Cold River Runnin'” (Mike Thomas, Tres Sasser)
5. “Stop the World” (Mike Thomas, Donald Bright)
6. “I Know a Guy” (Mike Thomas)
7. “Mountains of Home” (Malcolm Holcombe)
8. “Tailwaters” (Mike Thomas, Nick Powell)
9. “A Woman’s Love” (Mike Thomas)
10. “Porch Weather” (Mike Thomas)
11. “High Mountain Church” (Mike Thomas, Nick Powell)

Lorie Hollabaugh
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