As more artists continue to speak out about the recent violent events in Minneapolis following the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s infiltration of the city, My Morning Jacket is using art to project a message of hope during these challenging times. Today (Jan. 29), the Jim James-helmed indie rock outfit released Peacelands, an acoustic LP featuring covers and original songs that relay a wish for unity while America stands at a point of great division.
Recorded by Shawn Everett inside EastWest Studios’ Studio Three in Hollywood, Calif., Peacelands features 14 tracks, including classic originals from both My Morning Jacket and Jim James’ solo songbook. Other highlights include renditions of Brian Wilson’s “Love and Mercy,” Buck Owens’ “Together Again,” and the powerful Bob Dylan classic, “Blowin’ in the Wind.”
Below, James shares a statement explaining the inspiration behind the project and a message for all those seeking guidance or comfort through music as we all face the unknown horrors that continue to appear on our televisions and phone screens each day.
“‘Peacelands’ is a word and concept created by visionary Louisville artist Mark Anthony Mulligan, an imaginary land of peace, friendship, and equality he created in his artwork – a place where folks listen to each other and find a way to get along in peace, friendship, and togetherness – despite their differences.
“I think about this word ‘Peacelands’ in our world all of the time, especially in troubled times, and we believe that it’s still possible for us to achieve Mark’s vision of Peacelands – a world of love and friendship – if only we can learn to listen, love, and forgive in paths of peace, acceptance, and tolerance.
“We stand with the people of Minnesota and everywhere else affected by the horrors of ICE brutality and lack of human decency or transparency from this administration.
“There is room for everyone to be safe and free and at home in this vast world, and we need to find a new path together to safe and humane immigration policy and reform rooted in peace and love… safety and equality… and new systems of fairness, freedom, and transparent justice for all.”
My Morning Jacket, Peacelands
1. “Why Can’t We Live Together” (Timmy Thomas)
2. “New World Coming” (Barry Mann and Cynthia Weil)
3. “Love and Mercy” (Brian Wilson)
4. “Here In Spirit” (Jim James)
5. “Rainbow Power” (Timmy Thomas)
6. “I’m Amazed” (Jim James)
7. “Don’t Lose Your Eye” (Sonny Boy Williamson)
8. “Changing World” (Woody Guthrie and Jim James)
9. “State of the Art” (Jim James)
10. “Blowin’ in the Wind” (Bob Dylan)
11. “Everything Must Change” (Benard Ighner)
12. “In the Moment” (Jim James)
13. “Together Again” (Buck Owens)
14. “I Found a Reason” (Lou Reed)
“ALL PROCEEDS from Peacelands, an album of mostly unreleased, acoustic peaceful protest songs – some covers and some of my own – that we released today exclusively on @bandcamp, will go to organizations like @aclu_nationwide fighting for our safety and freedoms here at home, as well as @doctorswithoutborders and @rescueorg – organizations working hard to help heal the horrors of war and terror around the globe… working around the clock to help move us all towards “Peacelands.”
“Artwork artist is unknown and comes from a handmade wood carving I found years ago at a second-hand store in Missoula called Circle Square.”
All proceeds raised via the purchase of Peacelands, which is available now via Bandcamp, will be directed to nonprofit organizations currently located in Minneapolis, including the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), Doctors Without Borders, and the International Rescue Committee. My Morning Jacket also recommends visiting StandWithMinnesota.com to access a large directory of groups and activists working on the ground with the local community.
My Morning Jacket’s 2026 Tour Dates
April 18 – North Charleston, S.C. @ High Water Festival
May 3 – Redondo Beach, Calif. @ Beachlife Festival
May 7-9 – San Jose del Cabo, Mexico @ Viva El Gonzo
May 30 – Denver, Colo. @ Outside Days
July 22-26 – Floyd, Va. @ FloydFest
July 26 – Patchogue, N.Y. @ Great South Bay Music Festival
