Details

As its title suggests, New Leaves is a new beginning for Mike Kinsella/Owen.

It was recorded over the course of two years by multiple engineers such as Tim Iseler (Wilco), Brian Deck (Iron and Wine), Graeme Gibson (Califone), Nate Kinsella (Joan of Arc, Birthmark), and, yes, some recording at moms house.

New Leaves retains elements of earlier Owen material -- but here, the arrangements are more elaborate, the song structures more complex, and the lyrics more refined.

Instead of lamenting failed relationships, Kinsella focuses on the new beginnings they allow.