A Stranger and a Friend is a collaboration between singer-songwriters Josh Schicker and Lindsay Allward-Theimer and violinist, Catherine Espinosa.  Based in Atlanta, GA, the trio focus on creating music that is stirring and intimate while remaining accessible and beautiful. The ensemble released their first EP in early 2019 which was recorded in Nashville with Grammy-winner, Mitch Dane. Their second EP will release in mid-2020 and is being produced by Atlanta's own, Will Robertson (Eliot Bronson, Rebecca Loebe, David Berkeley). Combining the drama and vocal interplay of The Civil Wars and the sincere heartfelt yearning of Little Big Town, A Stranger and a Friend is carving out its own unique sound adding a little smirk to the mix.

 

Schicker’s musical career started in the mid-90’s fronting alt-rock bands in his native Michigan. Since going solo his focus has been on a more refined sound and vocal presentation. His solo efforts have found placements in indie film soundtracks and some international radio play. Most recently, Schicker’s ballad, “No Place Like You”, was featured in the romantic drama, Old Fashioned, starring Elizabeth Roberts and Rik Swartzwelder.

 

Allward-Theimer, also a native of Michigan, came into singing more recently and song-writing is a natural expression of her buoyant personality. The ukulele keeps an element of levity to the set list while her cutting harmonies add drama to balance the scales. A strong melodic focus is at the forefront of their combined efforts resulting in a blend of honest and playful lyrics over lush acoustic music.
 

Espinosa, a Missouri native, was recruited to join the band after sitting in on several gigs. Her playing complimented the vocal / duet sound and offered a third "voice" to the already unique sound. Her joy and earnest playing is lyrical and rounds out the acoustic feel of A Stranger and a Friend with pleasant confidence.