Emmylou Harris and Spyboy reissue expanded live album in November

Emmylou Harris’ legendary live album “Spyboy” will be reissued on 7th November 2025 via New West Records. “Spyboy” was originally released in August 1998, a 14-track set from a series of dates with a trio of musicians brought together to perform and promote Harris’ groundbreaking “Wrecking Ball” (1995) album.  Whereas the album featured a cast of musicians and Daniel Lanois’ lush, mystical production, the live experience was much more stripped back.  The band comprised Buddy Miller (guitars), Brady Blade (drums, percussion) and Daryl Johnson (djembe, bass, percussion).  Julie Miller adds backing vocals on her own ‘All My Tears (Be Washed Away)’.

The 2025 edition includes five previously unreleased recordings.  These include Lucinda Williams’ ‘Sweet Old World’ and Bob Dylan’s ‘Every Grain Of Sand’, both of which featured on “Wrecking Ball”.  The additional tracks include Tom Petty’s ‘Thing About You’ and Bill Monroe’s ‘Get Up John’ along with ‘All I Left Behind’ which was co-written by Harris with Kate and Anna McGarrigle. The record comes with updated artwork and new liner notes from Harris and Miller.

Reflecting on the project, Harris says: “Spyboy is one of the most special records of my career. That band reinvigorated me as a singer and inspired me night after night with their energy and unique musicianship. For those who never experienced it live, this album is the next best thing.”  Miller, who produced “Spyboy” adds: “I am so proud to have been a member of Spyboy–and to have produced this deluxe re-release of the album with never-before heard bonus tracks”. 

The updated “Spyboy” will be available on digital, CD and ‘clear colour’ vinyl and can be pre-saved / pre-ordered at this link.  As ever with New West, be alert to where they ship from for freight and tax issues.

The first song to be released from the upgraded “Spyboy” is the band’s rendition of Petty’s ‘Thing About You’ – ”it’s one we found in the Spyboy archives!” adds Miller.