Maygen & The Birdwatcher's new EP, Leap Year, is a contemplative collection of tracks that reflect the deep introspection the band experienced over the past year. Seeking the perfect environment to capture these poignant songs, they found solace in the warm studio of Real-Phonic Records in Cleveland, Minnesota. Renowned guitarist and producer Erik Koskinen brought his expertise to the recording process, ensuring the project was meticulously engineered and beautifully rendered.

Leap Year features reimagined versions of two tracks from their debut album, Moonshine: "Full Moons | Leap Year Session" and "Antidote | Leap Year Session." According to Maygen Lacey, "Noah and I wanted to re-release these two tracks in a more stripped-down style, really emphasizing the acoustic renditions and harmonies in their purest form. We always dreamt of what 'Antidote' would sound like on piano, so this was a very fitting record to explore that vision." The first single, "Full Moons | Leap Year Session," was released in March, showcasing the band's ability to revisit and revitalize their earlier work.

The EP is a testament to the band's evolving artistry, featuring two distinct lead singers and a talented ensemble of six musicians. This lineup allows Maygen & The Birdwatcher to push the boundaries of their songwriting and musical arrangements. Leap Year, however, represents a quiet moment of reflection, a pause before embarking on the next chapter of their musical journey.

The song "Jericho," the second single from Leap Year, written by lead singer-songwriter Noah Neumann, evokes a mid-century farm boy's perspective, navigating the complexities of life. With its melancholic baritone vocals and masterful bluegrass string arrangements, "Jericho" captures the band's adept musicianship and emotional depth.

"Right Where You Belong," inspired by the Soft White Underbelly YouTube channel, touches on themes of belonging and finding solace. Maygen Lacey explains, "We have all been there at one time or another. Some of us are still there, searching for relief from the depths of feeling out of place or misunderstood. The song is a gentle reminder that you deserve to find that place where you feel safe and at peace."

Maygen & The Birdwatcher’s music, firmly rooted in Americana, folk, and country, embraces a rich, full sound. Multi-instrumentalist Nik Pellinen's banjo, lap steel, and electric guitar, along with bassist Chase Rabideau, mandolin player Jesse Moravec, fiddle player Evin Haukos, and drummer-percussionist Peter Anderson, create a unique blend that only a seasoned and tightly knit band can achieve.

In late 2023, Maygen & The Birdwatcher embarked on a meaningful collaboration with the South Dakota Grasslands Coalition, aiming to protect North America's endangered grasslands. Their initiative culminated in the release of "Where Good Things Grow," an original song and accompanying music video. This project not only raised awareness about the critical role of grassland ecosystems but also galvanized support for conservation efforts among farmers, ranchers, and policymakers. The heartfelt composition earned them accolades, including the 2023 Video of the Year and Entertainer of the Year awards from the Midwest Country Music Organization.

The band's efforts were spotlighted by Minnesota Public Radio’s The Current 89.3 FM and Radio Heartland during Minnesota Music Month, recognizing their contributions to fostering understanding through music. This celebration highlighted the creativity, energy, and rich history of Minnesota’s music scene.

As Maygen & The Birdwatcher continue to push their artistic boundaries, fans eagerly anticipate their next steps. Their music, characterized by its emotional resonance and intricate arrangements, leaves listeners wanting more. This year, the band is poised to take their original music to new heights, continuing to captivate and inspire with their distinctive sound and heartfelt storytelling.