Andy Frasco & The U.N. Recruit Billy Strings, Mike Gordon & More For Cheeky Folk Anthem ‘Life Is Easy’

Andy Frasco & The U.N. rolled out “Life Is Easy,” a razor-sharp folk anthem that cleverly disguises social commentary beneath infectious and rollicking melodies. Frasco and U.N. guitarist Shawn Eckels enlisted Phish bassist Mike Gordon, guitarist Billy Strings, troubadour Steve Poltz, songwriter/multi-instrumentalist Chris Gelbuda and Daniel Donato's Cosmic Country to contribute to the latest taste of their forthcoming album, Growing Pains.

“Life Is Easy” showcases the blend of humor and sincerity at the root of Andy Frasco's best work. Frasco keeps it light while offering pointed satire on climate change, immigration, economic equality and more with genuine heart, urging listeners to both laugh at and reflect upon these complicated times.

“Andy Frasco is a mids-smokin’ Mitzvah for everyone who has ears to hear,” noted Donato. “He has the comedic audacity of Andrew Dice Clay, the minimalist profundity of Shel Silverstein, wrapped in a warm-hearted Mr. Rogers style demeanor tinged with psychedelic illumination.” Daniel Donato added electric guitar to the track, while bandmates Will McGee and Nathan Aronowitz are among those who provided backing vocals on “Life Is Easy.”

“This is a song about turning off the news for a little bit and just enjoying life and stop fearing what we can’t control,” explained Frasco. “There’s so much craziness going on in the world—sometimes all we really need to do is go outside and listen to the birds sing.”

“Being involved in this project was a dream come true,” added Steve Poltz. “Always a good time being in the Frasco orbit. He’s up for anything and that’s why he’s so much fun to be around.”

Stream Andy Frasco & The U.N.’s guest-filled single, “Life Is Easy,” below:

Growing Pains, Frasco’s 10th studio album, is set for release on May 23. Andy Frasco & The U.N. previously previewed the 12-track follow-up to 2023’s L’Optimist by sharing singles “Try Not to Die,” “Crazy Things” and “Swinging for the Fences.”

“I wanted to show people how I’ve grown as a songwriter,” Frasco stated. “That I wasn’t just a crowd-surfing party guy in a bar band. This record is about finding balance in both music and life—focusing on the simple pleasures, embracing the grind, and taking nothing for granted because there are no guarantees tomorrow.”

Andy Frasco & The U.N. continue their road warrior ways over the coming months. Scroll below for a complete list of the group’s current tour dates.