Following up their 2020 Lows and Highs full-length, Dayton, Ohio modern folk duo The Nautical Theme are back with a nicely crafted three-song EP entitled Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed. With two originals as well as a Jimmy Eat World cover, the EP is a supremely pleasant little release that seems like precisely the thing one might need after dealing with the hustle and bustle of life.
Premiering here, we've got "Somewhere Just Okay (But Not Alright), about which vocalist and guitarist Matt Shetler says:
"Head down, eyes fixed, thumbs repetitively swiping this way or that, looking for the next momentary focus - who among us hasn’t fallen into this self-soothing trap? The promise of a more connected existence that comes packaged up in smooth glass and shiny apps can often lead us to become wholly disconnected to what’s happening right in front, or even inside, of us. That was the jumping off point for the band when approaching our latest release and 'Somewhere Just Okay (But Not Alright).' I tried not to take a holier-than-thou approach to the lyrics. Rather, they’re meant to caution both myself and others not to slip into a lazy lifestyle devoid of real human connection. They are a personal reminder to try and make a positive impact on the people around me.
"Tesia Mallory, vocals/keys, and I found a common thread of commitment in the three song EP. These songs, recorded throughout a trying time for people all over the world, in my humble yet comfortable and accommodating Ready Shet Go Studio, are a culmination of influences Tesia and I have had over many years. It’s through deep musical compatibility that we find personal connection and hope that others can find it as well. Just as Tesia elevates the song into something much more expansive through thoughtful harmony and well-placed keys, we were able to benefit from the connections made with Micah Carli (Popside Recording, mixing) and John Naclerio (Nada Studio, mastering) to help bring this music to life."
I found this track to describe life in 2021 about as good as any song I’ve heard recently. Check it out below, and head over here to preorder the EP.
The Nautical Theme · Somewhere Just Okay (But Not Alright) - The Nautical Theme
