America - Here & Now [2007] Double CD

Here & Now is the sixteenth original studio album by American folk rock duo America, released by Burgundy Records in January 2007 (see 2007 in music). This is the first major-label full-length studio album released by the group since Perspective in 1984.

The personnel involved in the recording and production of Here & Now departs sharply from previous projects and represents an effort to reconnect with fresh, young talent. The album is co-produced by James Iha (formerly of Smashing Pumpkins) and Adam Schlesinger (of Fountains Of Wayne and Ivy). Guest artists include Ryan Adams, Ben Kweller, Jim James and Patrick Hallahan of My Morning Jacket, Matthew Caws and Ira Elliot of Nada Surf, Mark Rozzo of Maplewood, and longtime collaborator and friend Stephen Bishop. Veteran America drummer Will Leacox joins in on percussion. Cover songs include "Indian Summer" (Morningwood), "Golden" (My Morning Jacket), and "Always Love" (Nada Surf).

The recording sessions were completed in July 2006, but a scheduled September release was eventually pushed back to January 2007. This was first known occasion on which America recorded in a studio in New York City.

The first disc is comprised of brand-new studio recordings, while a second disc features a live performance of the entire History: America's Greatest Hits album as recorded for XM Satellite Radio, with longtime sidemen Willie Leacox on drums, Michaels Woods on guitar and keyboards, and newcomer Richard Campbell on bass and vocals.