All this month we are celebrating acts that you need to look out for in 2026. Today we speak to Dirt Road Souls who had a busy 2025 and have a busier new year planned!

Hello, tell us all about yourselves.

We’re Dirt Road Souls, a roots-rock trio of grizzled veterans on the Boston music scene, with a sound forged by more than a few backroads and dive bars. We used to be a band called The Inebriations, but Covid killed that. We’ve clawed our way back, and with the help of an old friend of ours we’ve rekindled the original sound and vision that leaned on acoustic guitar and upright bass. The three of us are having a blast and some of our shared experiences and stories have found their way onto this new album.

How was 2025 for you?

2025 was a turning point. We released “Bright Light White Heat” in April and “Hold On Soul” in October — two tracks that feel like doorways into the world we’re building. More than that, we spent the year working on our full-length, (The Life and Times of) Johnny Moonshine. We churned out a handful of great gigs that were icing on the cake.

What were your top 3 highlights from 2025?

Performing (The Life and Times) of Johnny Moonshine live for the first time and seeing it land with the crowd — that felt phenomenal.

Tracking the Johnny Moonshine sessions at Aberrant Sound in Wrentham, MA. The three of us locked in the studio for three days and nights, maximum hijinks!

Being a part of the New England Americana Fest back in June, connecting with a dozen or so other like minded bands in our area.

What was the key lesson you learned last year?

Keep yourself open to creativity because it’s never too late to reboot.

What are your plans for 2026?

We’ll release (The Life and Times of Johnny Moonshine) and take Johnny’s story out to the clubs. Then promote, promote, promote! We’ll try to extend our reach beyond the Boston area.

What other live shows are you looking forward to seeing this year?

Nothing beats the summer festivals. To attend something like Newport Folk Fest or the Green River Festival is just perfection as you have a three day, one stop shop of inspiration, and exposure to new sounds.

What styles do you hope to see more of in music in 2026?

How about more raw, edge-driven roots music that tells good stories? Stephen Wilson Jr. comes to mind, another great discovery in 2025.

Which band or musician is your one to watch in 2026 — and why?

Well, Dirt Road Souls! It’s gonna be our year. We’re also rooting for all the independent musicians we’ve come up with in New England!!

Do you have any New Year’s resolutions?

No. We’re too old for that s***, haha

Are you on social media? If so, how can people find out more about you?

Yes — follow us on Instagram and Facebook @DirtRoadSouls. Our full discography, updates, and stories live at dirtroadsouls.com.

Three words why people should come see you in 2026.

Raw. Real. Inexpensive!

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