Martin Zellar is releasing his first new album in 11 years, titled Head West on October 6, 2023. Zellar’s eldest son Wilson engineered, mixed, and mastered the album, in addition to playing all the guitar tracks. His youngest son Owen acted as assistant engineer, and primary engineer on vocal tracks, and his wife Carolyn took all the album art photos. Even his 13-year-old daughter Clementine contributed, to percussion.
The LP, available on CDs and vinyl, was recorded primarily at Zellar’s Cruz de Piedra studio in Central Mexico, where he lives with his family.
Zellar comments on what he’s most proud of in his career so far:
I guess that I’ve managed to support my family by writing, recording, and performing music for over 35 years. It hasn’t always been easy or glamorous, but I’ve found a way. I still love what I do and can’t imagine doing anything else. And honestly, the fact that I’m not qualified to do anything else has been a motivator.
Zellar first appeared on the mid-80s Minneapolis music scene as the lead singer and songwriter of the Alt-Country band Gear Daddies and has toured extensively with the band and as a solo artist.
Zellar adds about the new album:
Before the quarantine, I wasn’t sure I would ever record another album, but like many other people, the downtime provided a lot of time for my mind to roam. I think these songs reflect equal parts looking back and looking to the future. I am incredibly proud of this album, and the process of recording it was one of the most gratifying experiences of my life.
Everyone involved was incredibly qualified. I think that will be apparent when you listen. It’s been a long time since I’ve really leaned into promoting and touring behind an album, but I feel strongly that this album deserves to be heard, and I look forward to doing everything in my power to make sure it does.
