The National Parks Preview Vibrant New Album ‘8th Wonder’: Exclusive Premiere

The National Parks are on the eve of releasing their fifth full-length album, 8th Wonder. JamBase is pleased to premiere the album in advance of tomorrow’s official release.

The Provo, Utah-based folk-pop group is made up of guitarist Brady Parks, keyboardist Sydney Macfarlane, drummer Cam Brannelly and violinist Megan Parks. The band recorded 8th Wonder in Provo at June Audio Recording Studios.

Featuring 11 exuberant new songs including the singles “Angel,” “Trouble,” “History Channel,” and the title track, 8th Wonder follows The National Parks’ 2020 full-length Wildflower and their 2021 EP, A Mix for the End of the World.

Regarding 8th Wonder, Brady Parks told JamBase:

“Being in the outdoors is something that each of us connects with on a deeper level. Growing up in Utah and surrounding areas, nature has played a big part in the core memories of our lives. We know not everyone might have that same connection and so we wanted to bring that feeling to life through music. We hope this album serves as a reminder that when life gets tough, you can always go outside. It’s a symbol of hope, love, inspiration and making memories with those that mean the most to you. We hope those listening can really feel something from it and that it can be the soundtrack to all of their outdoor adventures.”

“I’m spiritually connected when I’m in nature and when I’m listening to music,” said Megan Parks. “We hope you hear the connection between nature and music. Listen to these songs and remember your adventures.”

Brady Parks and Scott Wiley, who also played bass and other instruments, handled the album’s lush production. Additionally, Dylan Schorer was brought in to add pedal steel guitar parts.

“We’ve stepped into what The National Parks is,” Macfarlane added. “We basically said, ‘This is who we are and who we have always been’. We decided to show who we are without trying to prove anything. I think it’s our best work.”

Pre-order or pre-save The National Parks’ new album, 8th Wonder, ahead of its official release, tomorrow, March 3. Listen to the album exclusively below:

The National Parks will set out on their Spring Tour 2023 in support of 8th Wonder from March 17 in Salt Lake City through May 13 in Denver. The band’s Fall Tour 2023 spans September 28 in Birmingham, Alabama through October 28 in Louisville. Scroll down for the full tour itinerary.

The National Parks “curated a playlist from some of our favorite songs lately that we listened to while on tour, as well as some that inspired the album, 8th Wonder.” With tracks by The 1975, Bon Iver, MUNA, HAIM, Phoenix, Oh Wonder and more, stream the band-selected playlist below: