More than 100 artists have joined forces to release Cardinals at the Window, a compilation album designed to support the victims of Hurricane Helene in western North Carolina. Featuring previously unreleased tracks from a wide array of artists, the $10 album is available now on Bandcamp, with proceeds going to several organizations providing on-the-ground relief, including Rural Organizing and Resilience, BeLoved Asheville, and the Community Foundation of Western North Carolina.
A Star-Studded Album for a Critical Cause
The compilation boasts an impressive lineup of artists from across the musical spectrum. Highlights include new tracks like the Mountain Goats’ “Hand of Death,” Sharon Van Etten’s “Weather,” and Nathaniel Rateliff & the Night Sweats’ “Smilin’.” Other contributors include Sylvan Esso, Real Estate, Geologist, and Lonnie Holley, each offering previously unreleased songs.
Many of the participating artists have provided live recordings or unique covers for the album. Standouts include R.E.M.’s “King of Birds,” Phish’s rendition of “Sand,” and a powerful performance of “Children of Children” by Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit, joined by Jerry Douglas. Other notable acts contributing include Fleet Foxes, King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard, the War on Drugs, Feist, and the Decemberists.
Supporting Asheville and Beyond
Proceeds from Cardinals at the Window will support organizations helping to rebuild communities devastated by Hurricane Helene, particularly in Asheville, N.C. These nonprofits are working tirelessly to provide relief to families and individuals affected by the storm, which made landfall in Florida on September 26 before battering the Carolinas with record-breaking storm surges and powerful winds.
With 230 deaths and billions in damages across the region, Hurricane Helene left a trail of destruction in its wake. Its impact was compounded by Hurricane Milton, which made landfall in Florida as a Category 3 storm just two weeks later on October 9, wreaking further havoc on already-struggling communities.
A Broader Relief Effort
In addition to the Cardinals at the Window album, several prominent artists have made substantial donations to hurricane relief efforts. Taylor Swift contributed $5 million to organizations aiding recovery in Florida, Georgia, and the Carolinas. Country stars Luke Combs and Eric Church announced their Concert for Carolina, set for October 26 at Charlotte’s Bank of America Stadium. The benefit show will feature performances by James Taylor and Billy Strings, with proceeds going to hurricane relief.
Other notable contributions include Metallica’s $100K donation to aid recovery efforts, Dolly Parton’s personal donation of $1 million to relief efforts, along with an additional $1 million through her business ventures. Morgan Wallen’s foundation also contributed $500,000 to the Red Cross, and Miranda Lambert’s MuttNation Foundation donated $100,000 to help animals affected by the storms. Sturgill Simpson has organized a benefit concert on October 21 at the Koka Booth Amphitheater in Cary, N.C., with proceeds going to the North Carolina Disaster Relief Fund.
A Heartfelt Effort for Those in Need
With the music community rallying around those affected by the recent hurricanes, the Cardinals at the Window compilation serves as both a tribute to the victims and a powerful fundraising effort. The album offers fans the chance to enjoy new music while directly supporting organizations dedicated to helping families rebuild their lives in the aftermath of these devastating storms.
For those looking to contribute, Cardinals at the Window is available on Bandcamp, and every sale will make a difference in providing relief to those who need it most.
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