Interview Juri Member, The Charcoal Sunset - Americana and Folk Rock band from Berlin

In-depth podcast interview conducted by music journalist Peter Schavemaker with Juri Member, frontman of the Berlin-based Americana and Folk Rock band The Charcoal Sunset, centered around their new album Souvenirs, released on Bear Family Records (April 10, 2026). The conversation explores the band’s long journey toward a distinctive Americana sound, shaped by the influence of artists such as Bob Dylan (track ‘Basement Blues’), Tom Petty “Probably the most important American rock and roll band” and Hank Williams as well as personal hardships, including the loss of their bassist. Juri reflects openly on the emotional weight behind the album, which stands as both a culmination of past struggles and a new artistic beginning.
American magazine Rolling Stone (German edition) already highlighted The Charcoal Sunset.
A key theme is the band’s unique position as a contemporary Americana act on a label traditionally associated with classic legends. The interview also highlights Juri’s personal connection to the United States, inspiring lyrics that examine the darker edges of the American dream. "Like the opener on the album 'If Jesus was American' that is definitely related to what's happening in the USA." "A lot of bad things happen right now in the American society and American politics and that's something that you know makes me very sad, and it definitely has an influence on certain songs.” Alongside artistic themes, the discussion turns to future ambitions, including expanding beyond Berlin, gaining and pursuing opportunities at international Americana festivals.
www.thecharcoalsunset.com
Interview © 2026 Peter Schavemaker Tekst, Audio en Podcast Producties