(Image courtesy of Coyote Island)

Coyote Island’s latest album, “Shadow Magic,” takes listeners on a journey inspired by self-discovery, exploring themes of spirituality, and overcoming darkness. The band, which began as a writing and recording project by Mike O’Hehir, soon expanded into a musical ensemble touring across the country, touching the spirits of many through their unique sound.

The theme of the album and O’Hehir’s motivation for starting the project originated from a period of introspection prompted by dealing with the darkness that had plagued his life. As the album’s namesake suggests, the music is about confronting one’s shadow and the magic that transcends through that transitional period into the light. By healing within, O’Hehir detailed a feeling of wholeness and balance that has led him to create the album and inspire listeners all over.

Album art for “Shadow Magic” by Coyote Island. (Image courtesy of Coyote Island)

The band is currently touring in Nashville, but is based in Maine, where O’Hehir primarily writes and produces music for Coyote Island. The name, which represents O’Hehir’s spiritual tie to the Coyote symbol and the double-edged power of isolation, essentially defines the essence of the project. Although the project began as an outlet for creative expression, it soon transitioned into a musical collaboration with a group of guys O’Hehir recruited over time, which has nurtured a brotherly dynamic through their 4-year journey together.

“After going through a few different formations, we have really found the family, and I’ve found them each in a special way,” he said. “It already feels timeless.”

In their album “Shadow Magic,” the music is an eclectic blend of genres and rhythms that create a sound he describes as psychedelic indie world. World, because of the global influences which have inspired O’Hehir, such as afro beats, cumbia or Turkish music, to name a few. However, their sound isn’t necessarily defined by one sort of label but instead a sound that is open to interpretation.

“There is an element of rock and roll too,” he said when describing their live sound.

Although the project has transcended its folk origins, their live jamming creates a one-of-a-kind sonic experience for their audience to feel and interact with the music.

“I realized there is a spirituality in music for me and in everything, and so I realized what I’m sharing is a direct vibration that people absorb and feel,” O’Hehir said.

(Image courtesy of Coyote Island)

He has always envisioned the project to reach bigger audiences, but the overall intention has always remained intact. O’Hehir shared his experience working many odd jobs over the course of his life, but the spiritual purpose of sharing his music surpasses any material success.

He affirmed, “I want to inspire younger people to be able to persevere and have this sense of meaning in whatever it is that they do.”

Coyote Island will be touring and on the road in the new year, as soon as January. Their album “Shadow Magic” is also available on all streaming platforms.