Alex Amen, singer-songwriter, released his debut album Sun of Amen on June 12, offering a collection of tracks with a consistent folk-country sound. Last year, he released “The Zorthian Tapes,” an EP that preceded the record out now through ATO Records. Born in Texas though briefly living on the West Coast, Amen carries both places with him: his voice has a timeless, old-school core that feels more cultivated than his years, while the songs themselves are steeped in Californian light. To what was described as a long time coming from the band themselves, Amen had his album release show on July 29 for a New York crowd at Elsewhere Rooftop.

It was a beautiful evening for the celebration. Planes flew above while the sun set calmly after the earlier rains. A full moon would later appear after the storm clouds drifted apart. A mix of songs from nostalgic-era artists including Nick Drake and The Velvet Underground aired over guests prior to opener Lefty Parker taking the stage.

Parker played the single “Illusions” from his record called Ark, which features a unique collaboration with Buck Meek. Like his peers from Big Thief, he occasionally strummed his guitar with a paintbrush, channeling an essence recalling Adrianne Lenker, and swayed into a groove reminiscent of Buck Meek. Lefty Parker showed his appreciation by giving his flowers to Alex Amen and his band.

Before no time, the Twin Peaks theme rang out while Alex Amen and his band arrived on stage. Amen seemed at ease and welcoming of everyone in his presence. They performed practically every song from Sun of Amen, with special appearances from Rose Paradise and Haylie Davis, who joined for vocals on songs like “Please Don’t Tell Me You Love Me,” while Adrien Garner played guitar, Casey Noonish played bass, and Colton Stephens played drums. The pedal steel guitar also brought even more liveliness to the set.

One standout moment came with “California Blues,” a song Amen wrote as a teenager that finally came to life again years later, a full-circle moment given his own path. Amen paid tribute to Townes Van Zandt with a cover of “I’ll Be Here in the Morning,” a tune that fit his style. He took a moment to thank Lefty Parker for opening the night, before closing the set with a song from an upcoming record, giving the crowd a first taste of what’s next.

Amen will be touring for the next month, with shows across the UK and Europe set for this fall. You can get tickets here.