Songs: Ohia - Impala - Vinyl Record

Impala, the beloved second album by Songs: Ohia, originally released in 1998 and now out of print, is getting an exciting vinyl reissue from Secretly Canadian this August. This special edition includes a remastered demo of ‘Tess,’ which was recorded during the original sessions. “Lorain, Ohio”—a place with a tough reputation—shapes a huge part of Jason Molina’s story. Growing up in a city dominated by steel mills, Ford plants, and shipyards, it's a place where people are hardworking and resilient. For Jason, who’s the main force behind Songs: Ohia, this background deeply influences his music and lyrics. Even if you leave Lorain behind, those roots stay with you forever. Impala really showcases Jason’s incredible songwriting, offering a heartfelt look into a man trying to overcome life’s hardships, loss, and the struggle to survive. You can feel that genuine emotion throughout—the kind that can’t be faked, born from knowing that factory work might not be an option for you and that the only way out might be through music or dreams. This release features just Jason and Geof Comings, making the tracks both beautifully sparse and richly textured—a true testament to the band’s strength and honesty. Our recommendation? Head over to your favorite local spot, settle in with a cold Genesee at the bar, and lose yourself in this music—just like folks do in Lorain.