Mary Chapin Carpenter Sets New Album Release and Tour Plans

Over the course of a 12-album recording career, Carpenter has won five Grammy Awards and sold over 13 million records. The new record follows 2008's acclaimed Christmas release Come Darkness, Come Light and 2007's Grammy-nominated album The Calling.

In her own words, Carpenter describes the album as, "a personal exploration of regret and resilience but also a larger, more universal expression of wonder at the times that we are living in." In support of the release, Carpenter will embark on a nationwide tour this summer. See below for details.

Recorded in Nashville, the 12-track album was produced by Carpenter and long-time collaborator Matt Rollings (Lyle Lovett, Keith Urban) and recorded and mixed by Chuck Ainlay (Mark Knopfler, Sheryl Crow, Willie Nelson). Carpenter was backed by a band that included Rollings (piano, B-3 organ), Russ Kunkel (drums), Duke Levine (electric and acoustic guitar) and Glenn Worf (bass). Of making the record, Carpenter notes, "the sessions were charmed, in the way that intensely creative recording sessions can be. The energy of the core band never flagged and the generosity of ideas that flowed each day were utter gifts." The album also features guest vocals by Vince Gill on "I Put My Ring Back On" and Alison Krauss on "I Was a Bird."

Coinciding with the album's release, The Americana Association will honor Carpenter with the esteemed "Spirit of Americana" Free Speech in Music Award. The award recognizes artists who have used their work to raise awareness and promote free speech through their music and other efforts. Past recipients include Johnny Cash, Kris Kristofferson, Joan Baez, Mavis Staples, Judy Collins, Charlie Daniels and Steve Earle. The award will be presented to Carpenter at the Newseum in downtown Washington, DC on April 27.