Originally hailing from Wisconsin, the duo of Eric Hillman and Brian Holl first began collaborating in high school before forming the current musical partnership four years ago under name of Foreign Fields. Together as Foreign Fields, they craft folksy, orchestral arrangements that dip and soar with intricate strings and acoustic guitar chords, with rhythms that crackle with texture. The two just released their new EP, What I Kept Hiding, we talk to the twosome about their high school beginnings, the perks of relocating to Nashville and what lies ahead for them.

Hometown: West Bend, Wisconsin 

Homebase: Nashville, Tennessee

How did you decide on your band name? Where does it come from?

Since we've started creating music together, the idea of putting people in a time and a place with our music has been really important to us. When we were choosing a name, we wanted it to reflect that. We wanted it to be sweeping, distant, foggy. 

How did you originally meet?

We started playing music together in our teenage years, staying after our church worship practices to write and, at that time, "jam."

What are the benefits of being a creative duo?

I don't know if I'd call it a benefit, but the most intriguing aspect of being a creative duo is the simple significance of having another "voice" in the process. Our songs are unique to Foreign Fields, something Eric nor I could replicate/continue on our own. 

What's been one of your most memorable recent shows? 

Likely the last show we played, at SXSW sandwiched between Laura Marling and Leon Bridges at St. David's Church. It was the most perfect setting for our live show yet. 

What visuals or feelings would you like your songs to conjure for listeners?

On our first album we explored wanderlust, the pros and cons, what it means for our relationships and happiness. What continuous "seeking" brings oneself. We're always writing with contemplative minds. Experiences that we're going through. 

What attracted you to Nashville? What impact did it have on your band and music?

We were living in Chicago at the time and it was difficult to do music. In every way, it was just difficult. Rent, space to play, getting into the music scene, etc. It didn't come naturally. Nashville was calling us with houses with backyard studios, $1 beers, and camaraderie.

What's the best way to spend a day in Nashville?

Ideal day off in Nashville... I'd go for a morning hike at Percy Warner Park with my dog and fiance. Grab a long breakfast at Marche afterwards. Meet some buds at Mas Tacos for a late lunch. Dinnertime, go to Village Pub for happy hour and a bite to eat before heading to the Basement to watch a friend play some folk songs. I'd be ready for bed by 11 PM. 

Where would you most like your music to take you?

South America sounds refreshing.