My Morning Jacket Releases Acoustic Charity Album 'Peacelands' for a Cause

An acoustic collection from My Morning Jacket offers heartfelt tunes supporting civil rights and global humanitarian efforts.

If you’ve ever found solace in the warm, introspective sounds of My Morning Jacket, their latest acoustic album Peacelands is bound to feel like a comforting embrace. This soulful 14-track release isn’t just a musical journey—it’s a philanthropic mission combining artistry with activism, designed to uplift and support important causes.

My Morning Jacket (photo: Silvia Grav)

A Record Born From a Vision of Peace and Unity

Peacelands sprang from a truly inspired concept by Louisville artist Mark Anthony Mulligan, who envisioned a place defined by “peace, friendship, and equality.” Frontman Jim James explains, “‘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. It’s a place where folks listen to each other and find a way to get along in peace, friendship and togetherness—despite their differences.”

In these buzzing, often divided times, the idea of Peacelands shines as a hopeful beacon. James reflects on this ideal often, especially when the world feels fractured. For his band and the project, it’s a call to “listen, love and forgive in paths of peace, acceptance and tolerance.” Such a message feels as urgent as ever.

Songs with Heart: Originals and Soulful Covers

Recorded in Los Angeles with renowned producer Shawn Everett, the album mixes originals like “I’m Amazed” and “State of the Art” with poignant covers that resonate with timeless messages. Imagine Brian Wilson’s tender “Love and Mercy” alongside Bob Dylan’s iconic “Blowin’ in the Wind,” taking on new life through My Morning Jacket’s acoustic lens.

The tracklist is a beautiful tapestry:

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)

This selection showcases a broad emotional spectrum and roots the album deeply in tradition while threading in modern relevance.

More Than Music: Supporting Causes That Matter

What makes Peacelands truly stand out is the purpose behind it. Proceeds are directed to three critical organizations: the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), Doctors Without Borders, and the International Rescue Committee. Through the music, My Morning Jacket extends solidarity to those fighting for human rights, medical aid, and refugee support globally.

Jim James voices a powerful stance: “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.” He continues, “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.”

It’s rare to see such a combination of artistic vulnerability and social responsibility come together so seamlessly. As a fan, it feels like being part of something bigger—music as a medium for meaningful change.

Looking Ahead: My Morning Jacket’s Upcoming Plans

While focused on wrapping up their next studio album, My Morning Jacket is keeping live shows to a select few this year. They kick off performances starting April 18 at the High Water Festival in Charleston, S.C. Fans can expect the signature lush, dynamic sound they love, perhaps with some acoustic flavors from Peacelands woven in.

‘Peacelands’ is a place where folks listen to each other and find a way to get along in peace, friendship and togetherness—despite their differences.”
— Jim James

• What is the purpose behind My Morning Jacket’s Peacelands album?
  The album supports charitable causes, with proceeds benefiting the ACLU, Doctors Without Borders, and the International Rescue Committee.
• Are all songs on Peacelands acoustic?
  Yes, the album features 14 acoustic recordings, blending original songs and covers.
• Who produced the Peacelands album?
  The project was produced by Shawn Everett in Los Angeles.
• Does My Morning Jacket have any upcoming shows planned?
  They will perform a handful of shows this year, starting April 18 at the High Water Festival in Charleston, S.C.
• What inspired the name ‘Peacelands’?
  It was coined by Louisville artist Mark Anthony Mulligan, representing a world of peace, friendship, and equality.

Feeling inspired by the spirit of Peacelands? Celebrate your love for great music and meaningful messages by shopping your favorite album cover posters at our store. Bring a piece of this peaceful soundscape into your space with art that speaks volumes. Explore now.