For over half a decade now, Nicole Atkins has been tearing up the charts with her amazing songwriting and singing abilities, along with a back-up band that’s saturated in talent. She recently took a moment to speak with MXDWN about what went into her latest album Mondo Amore.

Hi Nicole, how are you?

I’m doing fantastic, thanks for asking.

You new album is out. It’s pretty great stuff.

Thanks.

Who is that you’re with on the front of the cover?

That’s my friend Senior. I came up with the idea for this cover one night and it wouldn’t leave me alone.

Who did you record this with?

I called on my old members of The Sea. They’re great guys.

These are the guys you will be touring with?

Yeah. It’s a four piece, counting me. We all love the same kind of music and we’re like a big family.

Any surprises planned for the tour?

Maybe some cover songs. I’d like to do that.

Themes of big love run throughout the album. What were you going through when you recorded this?

The album is based on a series of relationships that were important to me, including a career and love interest. The record is all about me trying to resolve these situations in my head and heart. Writing about it makes it easier to overcome, you know? When I saw putting songs together for this album, it’s like, at first I was determined to make the album, then you think of what songs you are finishing and what songs you’d like to fit together and the cover art and everything. It’s an intricate process.

Besides the tour, what else can we expect to see coming your way?

There are also two videos coming out. One is for “My Baby Don’t Lie” and the other is for “Hotel Plaster.” I’m constantly updating the blog with new artwork.

What is next for Nicole Atkins?

I’m really excited to do SXSW this year. Austin is an amazing place. After that, we set up for Europe.

SXSW, how fun! Are you sure you’ll have the energy after that to go over to Europe?

I’m sure I’ll manage.

Well, that’s for taking some time to chat with me, Nicole. Good luck on the road.

Thanks!