TELLING A STORY. The Sixes' new album, More than Skin and Bones, is set to release on Dec. 31. (Photo via Facebook)

A longstanding sonic-acoustic duo is ready to release their most ambitious project yet.

The Sixes, a Chippewa Valley-based musical duo, is set to release their debut full-length studio album More than Skin and Bones on Friday, Dec. 31 – a record that is three years in the making. The new album from singer/rhythm guitarist Dwayne Thomas and lead guitarist Gordon Altizer shows a progression the duo is proud to present to the local music scene.

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I write songs from the heart about a bunch of aspects of life.

This album is about life, love, and everything in between. I try and tell a story on these songs, which I think is important to get the message of the music across effectively.

Dwayne Thomas

Local musician

“I write songs from the heart about a bunch of aspects of life,” Thomas said. “This album is about life, love, and everything in-between. I try and tell a story on these songs, which I think is important to get the message of the music across effectively.”

Having put out two EPs (Skylines in 2015 and Home Again in 2016), The Sixes’ new album incorporates full-band performances, as well as violin and cello – both firsts for the group. The eight-song album was recorded locally at Pine Hollow in Eau Claire and features a heavily 1990s folk and blues aesthetic. 

Even though their new album features instrumentation consistent with a full band, Thomas said the group will continue to perform as a two-piece for the foreseeable future, as it remains in line with the artistic vision intended for the group when they were founded in 2015.

(Contributed photo)

“I’ve always felt my music sounds best when it’s heard in its raw organic original form,” Thomas said. “These songs all started out as acoustic music, so even though the album is a full-band performance, having the live shows reflect the original vision of the songs will always be important to us.”

With lyrics depicting the hardships and successes of everyday life, it is clear that The Sixes’ new music is much more than just skin and bones.

More than Skin and Bones is available on streaming services and on CD at The Local Store on New Year’s Eve. The release concert for the effort is scheduled for Saturday, Jan. 8 at River Jams in Lake Hallie.

For more information on The Sixes you can visit their Facebook page.