Natalie Bergman announces new EP, I Killed A North American Songbird

Natalie Bergman, the Chicago-born singer-songwriter now based in Los Angeles, is poised to release a new EP titled I Killed A North American Songbird on November 6, 2026, through Third Man Records. This project marks a shift in Bergman’s artistic focus, moving from personal introspection to environmental reflection.

Following her 2025 solo album My Home Is Not In This World, which was shaped by themes of renewal after the birth of her son Arthur in 2024, Bergman channels her attention toward the natural world’s vulnerability. The EP is inspired by the landscapes and wildlife of her upbringing, with a particular emphasis on the decline of species such as oaks, songbirds, salamanders, and foxes.

The lead single “White Oak” serves as the EP’s opening track and has been released alongside a remix crafted by Kosta G. Accompanying the song is a music video directed by Andreas Ekelund with co-direction by Bergman herself. The visual features performances by dancers Sandi Denton and June Tate of Rated Z, as well as Staz Lindes from The Paranoyds, a band associated with Third Man Records.

Bergman’s inspiration for the EP was deeply personal and tied to a specific incident when she inadvertently struck an Indigo Bunting with her vehicle. This event sparked a series of blue and indigo paintings, which in turn influenced the musical direction of the EP. The collection can be seen as a contemplative appeal from the artist to herself and listeners alike to engage more responsibly with the environment.

Thematically, I Killed A North American Songbird departs from the grief and rebirth motifs that characterized Bergman’s earlier work, instead offering a poignant commentary on ecological loss. It examines the ways human actions contribute to the disappearance of native flora and fauna, underscoring a sense of accountability and urgency.

Alongside “White Oak,” the EP includes tracks such as “Indigo Bunting,” “Disappearing,” “The Way That You Love Me,” and “Peregrine Falcon.” These titles suggest a continued exploration of natural imagery and the tension between beauty and decline.

Bergman’s evolution as a songwriter reflects a growing commitment to environmental themes, broadening the scope of her artistry beyond personal narrative to encompass wider ecological concerns. This progression aligns with a rising trend among musicians to address climate change and species extinction through their work.

While details on the full creative process or additional collaborators remain limited, the involvement of Third Man Records signals strong support for Bergman’s artistic direction and the EP’s production quality.

The release of I Killed A North American Songbird represents a notable entry in Bergman’s discography, offering a fresh perspective shaped by both personal experience and ecological awareness. Fans and new listeners alike can anticipate a blend of introspective songwriting and urgent environmental messaging embedded within a carefully crafted musical framework.