Late, a Cowboy Song
Composer & Music Director
I had the amazing opportunity to work with the talented folks of Couch Penny Ensemble over the summer of 2025 on their production of Late, a Cowboy Song by Sarah Ruhl. My compositions are based on the lyrics provided in the script and were performed live by me and the cast at our six live performances, and recorded on this album.
Leave While You’re Able
This song is the high point of tension and conflict for our story. It starts gently but builds into a full band arrangement contrasting Mary and Crick, and underscores the choreography of their conflicted marriage.
Who Will Cradle?
Tender, longing, and full of love, this song appears multiple times throughout the show. It’s a heartfelt lullaby turned into an ode to the cowboys. Gentle yet powerful, and riding strong into the future.
Eating Soup
A lively introduction to Red’s band, this down-home country tune features a train track beat, twangy guitars, and even a harmonica solo!
As The Sun Sets
The debut song for Red in the show. Peaceful, gentle, and lonesome, this simple duet between the acoustic guitar and vocals sets the tone for our self-assured yet mysterious cowboy figure.
Dry Cactus
Red sings this lonely tune while the audience is left watching Mary’s sadness and discomfort after a tense scene. Always uneasy, prickly, and evoking the roughness of a desert cactus.
Worry Lines
Sad, reflective, and full of anxiety, this sparse track highlights the stress in Mary’s head. The slow tempo serves as a backdrop to contrast the attitudes of our main characters.