Two one-of-a-kind Chicago players, Bill MacKay & Michael Zerang, join forces on Scarlet Hour, the duo's first collaborative long-player, out on January 29, 2027. Today, listen to the lead single "New Song" and watch an accompanying video directed by fellow Chicagoan Michael Vallera.

Bill and Michael are both longstanding pillars of the Chicago music scene; composing, recording, and performing both solo and collaboratively on dozens upon dozens of records, shows, and jam sessions. Zerang has played with such figures as Peter Brötzmann, Jeff Parker, Eugene Chadbourne, Tashi Dorji, Daniel Higgs, and many many more. MacKay has been actively releasing music for over 20 years, both under his own name and in various collaborations with Nathan Bowles, Ryley Walker, BCMC, Black Duck, among others.

Scarlet Hour is comprised of eight tracks taking inspiration from Arabian, Turkish, Indian and Iberian folk music - some tracks written together, and some penned by one or the other player. MacKay's guitar, piano and requinto meet the luminous timbres of Zerang's darabuka, tambourine and saz, resulting in an exploration and balance of rhythm and melody alike.

This unique collaboration is brought to life by four hands weathered from years of experienced musical fellowship, unfraid (or unable) to stop exploring each and every musical world. The Scarlet Hour draws nigh! Hear the full thing on January 29, 2027, on LP and digital formats.

 

Bill MacKay & Michael Zerang 2027 Tour Dates

Jan. 29 @ The Hideout - Chicago, IL (Record release show!)

Mar. 18 @ Evanston SPACE - Evanston, IL

Mar. 19 @ Rozz-Tox - Rock Island, IL

Mar. 20 @ Arts + Literature Laboratory - Madison, WI

Mar. 21 @ Woodland Pattern - Milwaukee, WI