Denver, Colorado-based bluegrass quartet Magoo have released “Can’t You Hear That Train,” a fast-paced, acoustic guitar-driven track that introduces their forthcoming debut album, What A Life. The full record is set for release on February 27 and is available to pre-save and pre-order now.

Celebrating With a U.S. Tour and Festival Dates

To celebrate the album’s arrival, Magoo are currently on an extensive U.S. tour, which includes a sold-out hometown show in April at Denver’s Bluebird Theater and an added date in Chicago. The band’s spring and summer schedule features appearances at major festivals such as WinterWonderGrass, Electric Forest, and Northlands Music & Arts Festival, with more dates and details available through the band’s official channels.

Songwriting Roots and Live Energy

Guitarist Erik Hill explains the origins of “Can’t You Hear That Train”: “It started as a classic train song—your girl is leaving on a train and there’s nothing you can do about it. I wrote it about five years ago and just let it sit.” After revisiting the song last spring and playing it for the band, the track took on new life and quickly became a highlight of their live sets. “When I pulled it back out last Spring and played it for the band, that’s when it really came alive and the jam found its way in. We always have a lot of fun playing the song live.”

Collaborations and Honors

In November, Magoo released “Angel of Telluride,” featuring Sam Bush, a founding figure in progressive bluegrass. Mandolinist Courtlyn Bills shares, “Inspired by real events, ‘Angel of Telluride’ is a story about meeting someone and falling in love at the Telluride Bluegrass Festival.”
The band’s debut album, What A Life, was mastered by GRAMMY-winning engineer David Glasser (Grateful Dead) and showcases Magoo’s blend of tradition and innovation. The ten-track record balances heartfelt lyricism with adventurous, soaring instrumentals, reflecting both their respect for bluegrass roots and their drive to push the genre forward.

Meet the Band and Their Recent Achievements

Magoo features Dylan Flynn (dobro), winner of the 2024 RockyGrass Dobro Competition; Erik Hill (guitar), runner-up in the RockyGrass Flatpicking Contest; Courtlyn Bills (mandolin); and Denton Turner (bass). Their dynamic live performances, intricate arrangements, and three-part harmonies have earned them recent honors, including first place at UllrGrass Band Competition and Clash of the Strings, second at the Telluride Bluegrass Festival Band Competition, and a sold-out show at Denver’s Globe Hall.

Looking Ahead

With What A Life on the horizon, Magoo are positioned for a breakout year. Their upcoming album and tour schedule bridge the heart of traditional bluegrass with the fearless creativity of a new generation. Catch Magoo live across the U.S. this spring and summer, and connect with the band on Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook for updates.
Click Here to stream "Can't You Here That Train" on your favorite platform. And Pre-Save the album here.