Q&A with Carrie Newcomer

Reporter Kelsey Finn interviewed singer/songwriter Carrie Newcomer about her life in Bloomington and her newest album, “Before and After.” Newcomer will host a release concert at 8 p.m. Saturday at the Buskirk-Chumley Theater.

IDS: Can you talk about your new album, “Before and After?”

Newcomer: Most albums have themes, and on this album there are two very strong themes. The first is finding the extraordinary in an ordinary day. The second is the idea of the moment. We don’t live days, we live moments. We are so busy, and with information from so many sources, it is easy not be present in our own lives.

IDS: Who are some musicians who influenced your music?

Newcomer: If you look at all of my CD collection, I love all kinds of music. Recently I have been listening to Patty Griffin, and I just discovered Regina Spektor, but early on it was Paul Simon, Joni Mitchell and Leonard Cohen.

IDS: You are a Bloomington resident. How do you feel about kicking off your tour here?

Newcomer: I moved here in 1991 and I was only planning on living here for one year, but then I fell in love with the natural surroundings and the IU community. It was a wonderful place to be an artist, so I stayed. The Buskirk-Chumley is a lovely place for live music. I’m playing all over the country, but it’s nice to start at home.

IDS: What do you want people to feel when you hit the stage?

Newcomer: Welcomed. In terms of performance, I want to create a space where people feel warm and part of a community.