The latest instalment in the ever-evolving Cardboard Sessions series, is out now, featuring the multifaceted musician Pete Yorn. Known for his soulful, introspective songwriting and his ability to play multiple instruments, Yorn has now brought his unique talents to Cardboard Sessions, performing on a set of instruments crafted entirely from cardboard. The first video in his two-part series is available to watch right now, featuring a mesmerising rendition of “Real Good Love”, a standout track from his latest album, “The Hard Way”. Fans can look forward to the second part, “Calm Down”, which is set to be released tomorrow, August 28, 2024.
Cardboard Sessions, a collaboration between Signal Snowboards and Ernest Packaging, has become a beacon for musical innovation, pushing the boundaries of what can be done with the simplest of materials. This YouTube series, which began in March 2022, has grown into a creative platform where musicians are invited to play instruments entirely made from cardboard, turning the ordinary into the extraordinary. The series has already seen an impressive lineup of artists including ZZ Top’s Billy Gibbons, J Mascis, and Dogstar, with each episode offering something fresh, unexpected, and deeply engaging.
In true Cardboard Sessions fashion, Pete Yorn’s episode is a testament to the magic that happens when creativity meets the unexpected. Yorn himself expressed his amazement at how the session came together stating, “To come in and play on instruments that I’ve never played on before, and yes, they’re cardboard, but they have such a feel. The song ‘Real Good Love’ we did, it just kinda came together almost magically.”
His enthusiasm for the project is clear, as he remarked, “Thanks for having these Cardboard Sessions and making these happen. I’m a musician and a singer and this has been a blast. Keep them going…they’re good and they’re fun.”
What sets this session apart is Yorn’s immersive involvement in the music-making process. True to his reputation for being a multi-instrumentalist on his records, Yorn brought that same energy to his Cardboard Sessions appearance. He took charge of the cardboard guitar, bass, drums, and keys, showcasing his versatility across these unconventional instruments. His collaboration with Jackson Phillips, who lent his expertise as both an engineer and a fellow musician on the keys, resulted in a performance that seamlessly marries the raw authenticity of Yorn’s style with the playful, innovative spirit of the cardboard instruments.
The visual setup of the session adds another layer of intrigue. Yorn’s laid-back yet focused demeanour complements the minimalist, yet intricate design of the cardboard instruments. Each element of the performance, from the textured sound of the cardboard drums to the rich tones of the cardboard guitar, contributes to an atmosphere that is both intimate and captivating. It’s a reminder of what Cardboard Sessions is all about—stripping down the music to its essentials and letting the creativity flow freely.
Following our previous article in January, where we explored the series’ innovative approach, Cardboard Sessions has expanded its offerings with even more incredible performances. The series has seen iconic acts like Meg Myers, Marcus King, Daru Jones, and Ray Barbee joining the roster, each bringing their unique sound to the cardboard instruments.
The series has not only attracted big names but also amassed a growing fanbase, with some videos reaching hundreds of thousands of views. ZZ Top’s Billy Gibbons and Matt Sorum’s session, where they performed “Cuttin’ Up Paper”, remains one of the most popular, along with Dogstar’s episode featuring Hollywood star Keanu Reeves on bass. These performances highlight the series’ commitment to bringing together unexpected collaborations that resonate deeply with viewers.
As Cardboard Sessions continues to evolve, it sparks the imagination of who might step up next to take on the cardboard challenge. There’s no shortage of artists who would be a perfect fit for the series. We can’t help but dream about seeing legends like Orianthi, Avril Lavigne, Keith Urban, Dave Grohl, Brian May, Carrie Underwood, or even Taylor Swift take a turn with these unique instruments. Each of these artists has the potential to bring something extraordinary to the series, adding their distinct flair to the ever-expanding canvas that Cardboard Sessions offers.
With the upcoming release of “Calm Down” on August 28, Pete Yorn’s contribution to the Cardboard Sessions is not just another performance—it’s an invitation to experience the magic that happens when artistry and innovation collide. As the series continues, it remains an open canvas for creators and artists alike, bringing something unique to the table from unique one-of-a-kind instruments, preparing to impress everyone involved. You can watch the full Cardboard Sessions playlist on YouTube by clicking here.