Three pillars of Chicago’s innovative music scene—violist Whitney Johnson, cellist Lia Kohl, and violinist Macie Stewart—have announced their formation as a new trio. The collaboration debuts today with the release of BODY SOUND [STONE PIECE], a new cassette and digital single out via the revered Chicago label International Anthem. The single, “Stone Piece I,” offers a compelling first taste of the trio’s alchemical sound.
“Stone Piece I” is a masterclass in texture and atmosphere. The track was born from improvised string and vocal sessions recorded by Dave Vettraino at Shirk Studios. The trio then reimagined these recordings at International Anthem’s studio, manually creating and processing analog tape loops. The resulting composition is a multidimensional and abstract soundscape, artfully blurring the lines between minimalist classical, ambient music, and modern improvisation. It’s a patient, layered work that transforms the familiar timbres of string instruments into something entirely new and hypnotic.
This release serves as a preview for the trio’s highly anticipated live debut at the inaugural Sound & Gravity Festival in their native Chicago on Thursday, September 11th. The performance will offer audiences a deeper look into the project ahead of a full-length studio album, which is slated for release on International Anthem in 2026.
Johnson, Kohl, and Stewart are all formidable composers, performers, and multidisciplinary artists in their own right, each with a history of pushing creative boundaries. Their union as a trio represents a significant convergence of talent within the city’s experimental sphere. With Johnson’s electro-acoustic explorations, Kohl’s expansive sound art, and Stewart’s acclaimed compositional work, the project promises a rich and profoundly nuanced sonic journey. This first offering is a potent statement of intent from three of contemporary music’s most vital voices.
Title: BODY SOUND [STONE PIECE]
Label: International Anthem
Formats: Cassette + Digital Single
Release date: August 5th, 2025
Order via Bandcamp: https://intlanthem.bandcamp.com/album/body-sound-stone-piece
LIVE DATES
Thursday, September 11th – Sound & Gravity Festival – Chicago IL – tickets
Friday, September 12th – Cactus Club (w/ Helado Negro) – Milwaukee WI – tickets