Bon Iver Looks Back With ‘Volumes’ Archival Series
Bon Iver, the acclaimed experimental folk project led by Justin Vernon, is offering fans a deep dive into its recent past with the launch of VOLUMES, a new archival series releasing previously unheard concert recordings and material. This comes as Vernon has hinted at a possible extended hiatus from live performance, making this archival project a significant offering for devoted listeners. The first installment, VOLUMES: ONE “SELECTIONS FROM MUSIC CONCERTS 2019-2023 BON IVER 6 PIECE BAND,” is set for release on April 3, 2026, via Jagjaguwar.
The series represents a unique opportunity for fans to revisit performances from the band’s touring years between 2019 and 2023, alongside a single track dating back to 2017. Vernon, known for his innovative approach to music and performance, has described the project as a distillation of Bon Iver’s evolution during this period. The release isn’t simply a collection of live tracks; it’s a curated selection intended to showcase the band’s artistic development and the dynamic interplay between its members. This period saw Bon Iver exploring the sonic landscapes established in their albums 22, A Million and i,i, pushing the boundaries of their established sound.
The lineup featured during these concerts included Vernon alongside Andrew Fitzpatrick, Jenn Wasner, Matthew McCaughan, Michael Lewis, and Sean Carey. The archival release includes performances of tracks from the band’s more recent work, such as “P.D.L.I.F.”, a song released during the pandemic, and a rendition of “HEAVENLY FATHER,” a fan favorite originally released in 2014. Notably, the studio version of “HEAVENLY FATHER” has been unavailable on major streaming platforms for some time, adding to the appeal of this live recording. The inclusion of this track is likely to be a draw for long-time fans who have sought out alternative ways to listen to the song.
Adding an unexpected element to the collection is a cover of Mahalia Jackson’s “A Satisfied Mind,” recorded during a 2017 performance in Portland, Maine. This song holds a particular significance as it was previously performed by Vernon’s earlier musical project, DeYarmond Edison, offering a glimpse into his musical roots. The inclusion of this cover demonstrates Vernon’s willingness to revisit and reinterpret earlier influences within the context of the Bon Iver project.
Vernon himself has spoken about the intention behind VOLUMES: ONE, stating, “this particular set of 10 songs is like, ‘here, if you’ve never heard Bon Iver, or you have and you didn’t like it, this might be for you.’ This is what we became. This is really us at our best. This is it.” This statement suggests a desire to present a definitive snapshot of the band’s live sound and artistic identity during this era. The project, which has been in development since 2020, represents a significant undertaking in preserving and sharing the band’s musical history.
Expanding the Bon Iver Universe
The VOLUMES series isn’t a one-off release; Vernon has indicated that future installments will feature a wider range of material, including other live shows, demos, unreleased recordings, and previously unheard content. This suggests a long-term commitment to excavating and sharing the band’s extensive archive. Vernon discussed the concept further in a recent episode for NTS Radio, providing additional insight into the project’s scope and ambition. The NTS Radio appearance offered fans a more intimate look into Vernon’s creative process and his vision for the archival series.
Beyond the archival project, Vernon is also slated to return to the stage in July 2026 with Bon Dylan, a pickup cover band, at the Eaux Claires festival in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. Spin Magazine reported on the festival’s lineup, confirming Vernon’s participation. This marks a return to the festival, which has become a cornerstone of the music scene in his hometown. The Eaux Claires festival, known for its eclectic lineup and immersive atmosphere, provides a unique platform for artists to experiment and connect with audiences.
Track Listing for VOLUMES: ONE
- INTRO – The Forum, Los Angeles, CA. Sep 15 2019
- MAN LIKE U – The Forum, Los Angeles, CA. Sep 15 2019
- WE (feat. Bizhiki) – Xcel Energy Center, St Paul, MN. Oct 03 2019
- JELMORE – Tennis Indoor Senayan, Jakarta, ID. Jan 19 2020
- 666 – The Pavilion at Toyota Music Factory, Irving, TX. Apr 03 2022
- HEAVENLY FATHER – Mediolanum, Milan, IT. Nov 05 2022
- P.D.L.I.F. – Red Hill Auditorium, Perth, AU. Feb 26 2023
- HEY, MA – Pitchfork Music Festival, Chicago, IL. July 23 2023
- A SATISFIED MIND – State Theatre, Portland, ME. Dec 08 2017
- 33 “GOD” – WOMADelaide Festival, Adelaide, AU. Mar 10 2023
- Sh’DIAH (boardmix) – Scotiabank Arena, Toronto, CA. Oct 06 2019
The release of VOLUMES: ONE arrives amidst ongoing speculation about Bon Iver’s future. Recent comments from Justin Vernon have suggested a potential shift away from traditional album cycles and live performances. In February 2026, NME reported that Vernon expressed surprise if he were to create another studio album, hinting at a possible re-evaluation of his artistic approach. This has led to discussions among fans about the future direction of the project and whether VOLUMES represents a new chapter in Bon Iver’s evolution.
The archival series, takes on added significance as a potential culmination of a particular era in Bon Iver’s history. It allows fans to experience the band’s music in a new light, offering a glimpse behind the scenes of their creative process and live performances. The project also serves as a testament to the enduring power of live music and the importance of preserving these moments for future generations. As Vernon looks back on his work with Bon Iver, VOLUMES provides a valuable opportunity for both fans and critics to reassess the band’s legacy and its impact on contemporary music.
The next confirmed event related to Justin Vernon and the Bon Iver world is his performance with Bon Dylan at the Eaux Claires festival in July 2026. Further details regarding future installments of the VOLUMES series are expected to be announced via the band’s official channels. We encourage readers to share their thoughts on the new archival release and the future of Bon Iver in the comments below.