Definition by Elysian Fields (Interview 2026)

Edition Sixty-Two – Week Sixty-Two; Unit 2:

Written by: Mercedes Barreto // Keyboardist & One of the main song writers of the Utah band Elysian Fields: James Shumway.

Introduction

Some albums deserve a second life. More than three decades after its original 1995 release, Definition by Utah pop-rock band Elysian Fields is returning through a worldwide digital re-release, giving a new generation of listeners the opportunity to discover an overlooked musical treasure. Although the band disbanded in 1996 after a brief but memorable run, Definition remains a testament to the songwriting partnership of James Shumway and Mark Roos, the expressive vocals of Kerri Murray, and the musicianship of Dale Sandberg and Jeff Francom. Originally praised by The Deseret News as “a breath of fresh air” and “definitely one for the local band collector,” the album now has the chance to reach the global audience it never had the opportunity to find in the CD era.

Short Review

Listening to Definition today, it’s remarkable how naturally it has aged. Rather than sounding tied to the mid-’90s, the album’s heartfelt songwriting and melodic pop-rock arrangements still feel sincere and inviting. Songs such as “Staying With You” capture the excitement of discovering lasting love, while tracks including “Wings to Fly,” “Desert Sky,” and “Take My Hand” explore hope, dreams, and emotional connection with genuine warmth. Produced by renowned producer Cliff Maag, the album balances polished musicianship with an authenticity that gives it lasting appeal.

For longtime fans, this re-release offers a welcome chance to revisit a beloved local classic. For first-time listeners, Definition stands as a reminder that some of the best music isn’t always the most widely known—it simply needs the opportunity to be heard.

Q&A

Looking back, what inspired the decision to re-release the album now?

“It was a recognition that music streaming has revolutionized the industry, and that independent artists can now get their music to a global audience. We believed the album would have a life beyond the 1990s if people just had a chance to hear it.”

One of the most interesting parts of your story is that you decided to record a full-length album before playing a single live show. What gave you that confidence?

“Mark, Kerri, and I were so pleased with the music we were creating that we felt we just had to get it recorded as soon as possible.”

Many of the songs explore universal themes such as love, dreams, loss, and nature. Why were those subjects so important to your songwriting?

“I was the lyric writer of the band, and those are themes that resonated with me in general. At the time, I had a lot of ambition, had experienced love and loss, and, though my hiking in the Utah wilderness, had a strong emotional connection to nature.”

What do you hope someone hearing Definition for the very first time in 2026 will take away from the experience?

“The music has an emotional quality that I think is timeless, and the lyrical themes are universal ones lots of listeners can relate to.”

Where can we hear more, and why should we?

“Unfortunately, the band broke up in 1996, so there won’t be more music from the band itself. However, I have been releasing classical music pieces and am working on solo pop and rock projects. It’s possible other band members will be releasing solo projects in the future as well.”