A Campbellsport Farm and a Breakthrough Album

Oshkosh composer and pianist Alicia Rytlewski has recently been acknowledged and praised across the country for her debut album, “When We Were Bears.” This contemporary classical record was partially written during her time living on a farm in Campbellsport. Her lyrics are shaped by Wisconsin’s landscapes, seasons, and spirit.
The album was released on January 24 and has already been highlighted by Wisconsin Public Radio (WPR) and received national and international recognition from publications like Uproxx, Interlude, and Milwaukee Record. It has also earned radio play on Radio Milwaukee.
“A marvel... ‘When We Were Bears’ captures Rytlewski’s majestic dynamism, highlighting both her careful ear for fine detail and resplendent totality,” wrote Uproxx.
The project was composed over the course of eight years while Rytlewski lived in various parts of the state, including Campbellsport. These surroundings helped her shape an earthy, expansive and intimate sound throughout each song.
“A wonderful—and wonderfully accessible—contemporary classical album...earthy, dramatic, hypnotic, and rich,” said the Milwaukee Record.

Additionally, Rytlewski recently performed selections from the album at a release concert at Milwaukee’s iconic Pabst Theater, drawing a crowd of several hundred.
“Her ability to draw inspiration from personal connections and translate them into music has made her compositions deeply resonant,” noted Interlude (Hong Kong).
The album was recorded at Wire and Vice Studios in Milwaukee. The music was mixed by indie musician and producer Ian Olvera, and mastered by Justin Perkins, known for his work with The Replacements and Rufus Wainwright.
It was stated that Rytlewski leaned into a warmer, songwriter-inspired approach throughout the album, which drew comparisons to artists like Susanne Sundfør and Sufjan Stevens.
“Nothing short of beautiful,” wrote Breaking and Entering. Additionally, Radio Milwaukee called the album “something special...gentle and insistent and soothing and stirring.”
Many listeners enjoy the delicate piano tracks on the album as they allow for quiet reflection and emotional clarity.
“When We Were Bears” was officially released on January 24 alongside a companion book of sheet music and is available to stream on most music platforms.
Alicia Rytlewski’s unique talents are currently being widely recognized with her sound deeply rooted in Wisconsin’s natural beauty and inspiration from a Campbellsport farm.