Rough Trade / Europe / RE 2021 / 2LP
Iowa Dream is a posthumous album compiling 19 restored and completed tracks by visionary musician Arthur Russell, drawn from decades of unfinished work. Curated by Russell’s partner Tom Lee and Steve Knutson of Audika Records after ten years of archival work, the album showcases Russell’s many musical identities—folk singer, avant-garde composer, disco innovator, and introspective songwriter.
Featuring early demos from failed label bids in the 1970s and newly completed tracks with contemporary musician Peter Broderick, Iowa Dream blends personal, heartfelt folk songs with danceable, experimental pop. It includes collaborations with New York’s downtown music scene and reveals Russell’s deep connection to his Midwestern roots. The album stands as a vivid portrait of a uniquely multifaceted artist whose influence continues to grow.