Hear Steep Canyon Rangers' New Song 'Rumble Strips'

Official Announcement | Published: Mar 10, 2026 2:01 PM EDT

(Yep Roc Record) GRAMMY Award-winning bluegrass and Americana ensemble Steep Canyon Rangers today share "Rumble Strips," the fourth track unveiled from their 15th studio album, Next Act, out May 22 on Yep Roc Records.

Written by guitarist and vocalist Aaron Burdett, "Rumble Strips" takes its inspiration from the familiar roadway warning grooves that signal when a driver has drifted off course. "My friend Nate is fond of saying when a person has gotten off track a little bit and notices they've "hit the rumble strips" and maybe only need a little course correction to get back on the right path," Burdett explains. "I took this imagery and applied it to a relationship. Some ongoing conversations between Graham [Sharp, banjoist] and I filled this one out." Musically, the song reflects the band's recommitment to clarity and feel, letting the arrangement serve the story rather than overwhelm it.

Recorded by Julian Dreyer at Echo Mountain Recording, Asheville, NC, and produced by Mike Ashworth and the band, Next Act marks a return to their bluegrass roots reclaiming the music that shaped them, creating an album that honors tradition while writing new chapters within it. The album features guest appearances by Steve Martin, Edie Brickell, and Celia Woodsmith of Della Mae. Three tracks from the album have been released including: "Heart's the Only Compass (feat. Steve Martin)," the title track, "Next Act," and "Circling the Drain."

In support of Next Act, the band will be on the road bringing their bluegrass sound to theaters, festivals, and performing arts centers across the country. The extensive tour includes a series of dates with Steve Martin & Martin Short, a symphonic evening with the Nashville Symphony, and festival appearances including MerleFest, Kerrville Folk Festival, and RockyGrass.