Orville Peck has always been a trailblazer in country music, and his latest album Stampede is a reminder of that audacious spirit. The album brings together an eclectic mix of artists, ranging from Beck to Kylie Minogue, in an ambitious venture that might just redefine the genre. Other big names and famous voices you'll hear on the record include Willie Nelson, Elton John, Noah Cyrus, Margo Price, Teddy Swims, Mickey Guyton, and more.

The journey began with an unexpected request from Willie Nelson, who invited Peck to reimagine the classic “Cowboys Are Frequently Secretly Fond Of Each Other.” This collaboration, the first single from Stampede, set the stage for a record that marries the timelessness of classic country with the vibrancy of contemporary sounds. Another single, “Midnight Ride,” is a genre-bending track featuring Kylie Minogue and Diplo that adds a layer of pop-infused dynamism to the album. Peck’s ability to traverse musical boundaries is further exemplified with songs like “The Hurtin’ Kind” featuring Midland, which is a tropical-inflected tale of heartache, and “How Far Will We Take It?” a heartfelt ballad with Noah Cyrus that explores shared struggles and resilience. Peck’s creative journey on Stampede is guided by his collaborator and producer, Christopher Stracey. The album pushes Peck out of his comfort zone, exploring genres and styles he might not have ventured into solo. From the New Orleans-infused “Chemical Sunset” with Allison Russell to the ‘90s Latin pop vibes of “Miénteme” with Bu Cuarón, Peck demonstrates a fearless embrace of musical experimentation.

Stampede isn’t afraid to travel some unconventional territory. Expect a fusion of disco-country, acid-rock, and so much more. The seamless integration of covers and originals throughout the album showcases Peck’s songwriting ability, creating a cohesive album that honors his guests while maintaining a distinct narrative thread. As Peck rolls out this ambitious project, he’s also shedding some of his signature theatricality. The gradual reduction of his iconic mask reflects a deeper personal evolution. “I was always drawn to the combination of something theatrical, authentic, and vulnerable,” Peck says. “But as the years have gone by, the mask has felt less and less important. It’s allowed me to focus more on my skills as a songwriter and storyteller.”

Stampede is a milestone in Peck’s career, a celebration of his artistic journey. As he reflects on working with such esteemed artists, he acknowledges the growth and validation that comes with it. “When I sit back and look at all of the artists on this album, I almost still can't believe these people wanna work with me - but the empowering thing is: I can actually believe that they wanna work with me.”