Willi Carlisle kicks off upcoming Dutch tour early June

For folksinger Willi Carlisle, music is a form of healing. He believes singing together helps us face suffering and deepen our capacity for love. On his latest album, Critterland, he invites listeners into that experience: “When we sing together, something releases—maybe even sadness. For me, singing is a way to work through pain. It’s liberating.”

Building on the themes of his previous record, Peculiar, Missouri, Critterland unleashes a vibrant cast of characters and stories drawn from the margins of American life. Rooted in the communal energy of his live shows, it explores the strange, sorrowful, and beautiful aspects of being human. Carlisle recently joined WesternAF for a powerful rendition of Richard Thompson’s “Beeswing,” delivered like a prayer for what’s lost and a hymn for those who won’t be tamed. The performance showcases his poetic voice and emotional depth—don’t miss the full video.

With five Dutch shows coming up in early June and a new album, Winged Victory, set for release on June 27, 2025, Carlisle continues to push his craft forward. Produced by GRAMMY-nominated Darrell Scott, Critterland has earned spots on several “Best of 2024” lists, while Winged Victory promises even more of the raw pageantry and fearless storytelling that define his work.

08/06: Arnhem, NL - Luxor Live
11/06: Haarlem, NL - Patronaat
12/06: Middelburg, NL - De Spot
13/06: Groningen, NL - A-Theater
14/06: Utrecht, NL - TivoliVredenburg