Art & Design Magazine
Albuquerque, New Mexico-based, BYLAND, the cinematic folk/indie-rock project of Alie Renee, released her first in-studio record, "GRAY" on October 2nd, 2020. Previously featured on outlets like American Songwriter, PopMatters, KUPR, Mystic Sons, Albuquerque Journal, among others, BYLAND went national with "GRAY". Departing from the reflective and sentimental nature of BYLAND's earlier work, GRAY turned the focus inward with a vulnerable and unidealized approach. The album is driven by cinematic soundscapes, accompanied by timeless arrangements and distinct composition. The record has the masterful touches of producer and multi-instrumentalist Nathan Yaccino, along with additional mixing by Andy Park, and mastering of Ed Brooks. Notable contributors alongside Alie include a lineup of powerful females - Jessica Dobson, Meagan Grandall, and Abby Gundersen. Raised under the Albuquerque, New Mexico sun, Alie has been playing music since she was a child and was on a stage by 13. But it wasn't until 2014, after having moved to Seattle, that Alie began performing under the name "Byland". In spring of 2018, Byland self-released her debut album, Desert Days, produced in a home studio with support from her co-writer, Jake. The record offers vast soundscapes, exploring enchanting memories of the Southwest as a tribute to Alie's late Father. Along with several singles, Byland released her first music video, "Albuquerque", garnering hometown love and recognition from afar.
