In the world of American indie rock, Joe Pernice is a one-of-a-kind artist, whose melodies sometimes resonate with the essence of life itself. With a career spanning over a quarter-century, Pernice has honed his craft after years of work, creating a remarkable catalog that breathes new life into every album. Who Will You Believe is a product of this work ethic. Maybe that’s because for Pernice, music is more than just a profession, it's a way of life. "These songs were all written during the same time period," he reveals, "and they all seemed to tap into a mood I was in at the time. I go through spells where I'm a certain way for three or four months." It's this ability to look inward that forms the backbone of Who Will You Believe, as Pernice takes a deep look at what it means to be human.

In the span of just six months, Pernice found himself grappling with the loss of three close friends, including the enigmatic poet and songwriter David Berman and Rhino Records executive Gary Stewart. "That was such a bad patch when David and Gary both took their own lives," he reflects. "And my cousin Joe Harvard... It was such a tough year." Yet, in the darkness, Pernice found a light in the act of creation, channeling his grief into songs that serve as both a tribute to the fallen and a reminder of the resilience of the human spirit.

As Who Will You Believe spins on, it becomes clear that Pernice is not content to dwell solely on sorrow. Instead, he finds beauty in the balance between light and dark, mixing moments of solemnity with warm humor and togetherness. It's a delicate dance that speaks to the depth of his writing, showcasing a wisdom that can only come with age. And in doing so, he reaffirms his rightful place as one of America's most beloved troubadours.