Join us at eTown Hall as we revisit a show from 2019 featuring tattooed teddy bear Timothy Showalter, who goes by the stage name Strand Of Oaks. Sharing the bill is singer-songwriter Anna Burch. Nick also interviews Murray Fisher of the Billion Oyster Project about the importance of oysters for clean water and storm mitigation.
Strand of Oaks
Tim Showalter of Strand of Oaks was at a creative crossroads in late 2017, uncertain about his next move. With no new songs written, he didn’t expect the call from Carl Broemel (My Morning Jacket) that would spark a creative rebirth. Within a day, Broemel and My Morning Jacket bandmates Patrick Hallahan, Bo Koster and Tom Blankenship had joined the project, fueling Showalter’s vision.
Recorded live at La La Land Studios with producer Kevin Ratterman, Eraserland, features soaring contributions from Jason Isbell and Emma Ruth Rundle. This week’s rebroadcast features songs from Eraserland, a deeply personal rock and roll odyssey
Now, in 2025, Eraserland remains a striking testament to transformation, resilience, and the power of collaboration. As Tim’s opening line declares, “I don’t feel it anymore,” this album was never about an ending—it was always about a beginning.
Since Eraserland, Strand of Oaks has released In Heaven (2021) and Miracle Focus (2024), further expanding their dynamic and introspective sound.
Anna Burch
When Anna Burch introduced herself on her 2018 debut Quit The Curse, it was with a rush of jangly guitars, bright melodies, and serotonin-boosting pop. We hear songs from that album on this week’s rebroadcast.
Her follow-up, If You’re Dreaming (2020), took a more introspective turn, shedding nervous energy for deeper reflection. After months on the road, Anna disappeared to write, spending time in Berlin and Detroit, where she pieced together songs that explored change, uncertainty, and solitude. With its lush arrangements and dreamlike atmosphere, If You’re Dreaming remains a compelling listen as well.
Murray Fisher
Murray Fisher and Pete Malinowski founded the Billion Oyster Project in 2014, envisioning a healthy, biodiverse New York Harbor and sharing the belief that restoration without education is temporary.
Learn more here.