Jun 24

Jun 24 Review: Valley Maker at AyurPrana Listening Room

After the 2021 release of When the Day Leaves, Austin Crane took a step back from touring and recording — not to walk away from music, but to focus on family and finish his doctorate. Like many artists, the COVID-19 pandemic years made touring difficult, and Crane, originally from Columbia, SC, had plenty on his plate, including a new baby.

But on June 20, Valley Maker returned to Asheville for the first time since its 2018 show at The Mothlight. Performing at the AyurPrana Listening Room, Crane was joined by Amy Godwin of Atlanta-based duo Bizner, whose vocal harmonies beautifully complemented his warm guitar work and understated vocals.

The set opened with a run through selections from Valley Maker’s first three albums — a reminder of just how strong that early material remains — before shifting into a handful of new songs. Crane introduced the fresh material with a bit of hesitation, but there was no need for apology: it was great to hear what he was working on, and they proved on par with his past work. Thankfully, Crane shared that he’ll be heading back into the studio soon to begin recording the follow-up to When the Day Leaves — proof that a new Valley Maker album is on the horizon.

The evening also featured hushed, intimate performances from local singer-songwriter Julie Odell and Bizner, each offering a fittingly gentle prelude to Crane’s return.

(Photos by Jonny Leather)