Elysian Fields has re-released their well-known ’90s album “Definition.” Formed in Utah in the mid-’90s, the group feels like a perfect example of talented musicians coming together at the right moment to create something that deserved a much bigger spotlight. The partnership between songwriters James Shumway and Mark Roos gives the band a strong creative foundation, while Kerri Murray’s expressive vocals add a distinct personality that immediately sets them apart. What stands out about Elysian Fields is how naturally every member seems to contribute to the band’s identity rather than one person dominating the spotlight. The re-release of Definition feels like a well-deserved second chapter, giving a new generation the chance to discover a band whose talent and chemistry still shine decades later.
“Elysian Fields prove that the most beautiful musical stories never lose their magic.”
First released in the 1990s, the album is back to make waves in the modern era with its evergreen charm. And trust me, even after all these years, it feels fresh because it focuses on universal experiences that never go out of style. The songs move through themes of love, hope, dreams, longing, and personal growth without ever sounding overly dramatic. Tracks like “Staying with You” capture the excitement and comfort of finding someone who truly feels like home. Throughout the album, there is a recurring sense of optimism, as if every song encourages listeners to keep moving forward despite life’s uncertainties.
The songwriting feels really honest and relatable here because it touches on emotions that most people have experienced at one point or another. Musically, the album sits comfortably between melodic pop-rock and adult contemporary sounds, filled with memorable hooks, and that is the reason it still feels fresh after almost two decades. The production is so well balanced that even during quieter moments, the album never loses its melodic charm, making every track easy to connect with. In particular, songs like “Wings to Fly” and “Desert Sky” remind you of the freedom you have to live big. This is one of the album’s greatest strengths, where every song contributes to the overall emotional journey rather than feeling like filler. Definition ultimately stands as a reminder that great songs do not age; they simply find new listeners when the time is right.
We caught up with James Shumway from Elysian Fields for a nostalgic conversation about the band’s early days, the stories behind ‘Definition,’ and what lies ahead. Here’s how it went.
1. Every band has a story that shapes who they become. When you think back to the early days of Elysian Fields, what memories or moments still make you smile the most?
One would be songwriting with Mark. He and I were pretty much always on the same wavelength musically, and our ideas seemed like they were made for each other. Another would be teaching the songs to Kerri. She was a lot of fun and had a vocal talent I’m still in awe of to this day.
2. “Definition” revolves around themes like love, dreams, and hope. What inspired you to write about these emotions?
A lot of it had to do with the emotional nature of the music itself. I was the lyricist of the band and tried to make the lyrics fit the mood of the music. I would just go lyrically with whatever the music made me feel, and often that involved themes of love, hope, and dreams for the future.
3. Looking back today, do any of the songs from “Definition” mean something different to you than they did when you first recorded them?
In regards to songs like “Staying With You” and “Eternal Flame,” I’ve come to realize how fleeting the emotions expressed in those songs truly are. So many couples who once were in love with each other end up going their separate ways. I have the greatest admiration for any couple that is able to stay in love forever.
4. Recording a full album before playing your first live show was a bold move. What made you take that leap?
After Kerri joined the band, we were all so pleased with the music we were creating together that we felt we needed to get it professionally recorded.
5. The album feels both heartfelt and melodic from start to finish. How did the band work together to create that balance?
The melodies came first. Mark and I tended to write melodies that sounded emotional, even if we didn’t know at the moment what emotion we were trying to express. Then, as I mentioned earlier, I would try to write lyrics that reflected what the music was making me feel. And Kerri, because she is so expressive in her vocal style, was able to convey those emotions perfectly.
6. Now that “Definition” has been re-released, what does the future look like for you? Could fans expect more music, special projects, or even a reunion someday?
A reunion is unlikely because we are in different parts of the U.S., doing different things now. However, there will definitely be more music from some of us individually. All the band members continued to be involved in music one way or another after the band broke up, and that will continue into the future.
Catch the muse here:
Want to discover more such similar tracks? Check out our Rock Muse playlist on Spotify:
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