Devendra Banhart has formed a new band called Hug with guitarist Gyan Riley and producer Noah Georgeson. The trio will release a self-titled debut album on September 11 via Luaka Bop. They have also announced a fall tour.
Banhart and Georgeson have collaborated for years, including on the 2021 ambient album Refuge. Riley, son of minimalist composer Terry Riley, and Georgeson were childhood friends who bonded over classical guitar.
In a press release Riley recalled their early connection. Georgeson later introduced Riley to Banhart in Brooklyn. Banhart described the meeting by saying everything was sparkling and he felt like a little kid, adding that he knew they must play together.
The album features 11 tracks led by the single Cow With Half Moon Parasol. Tour dates begin October 8 in New York and include stops in Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, Minnesota, Illinois, and California.
