Featuring four songs that epitomize the old indie rock sound, and themes that just scream Back to the Future, the concept is already intriguing on its own. To be able to have it in the present ready to be listened to is almost an honor.
The Sway goes way back in the early nineties, with their humble beginnings in 1989, and their return with their “Songs From Then & Now” EP in 2024. With a long history like that, as well as experience with countless songwriting and melodic compositions, The Sway has managed to combine their past and future in these four songs, which are “You Drag”, “Possible”, “My Universe”, and “Daylight”.
It’s an interesting output, having iconic-sounding melodies that are oddly familiar and nostalgic to the past, yet having lyrics that are evidently now and present. In the band’s own words, “in fine form, with a more mature outlook on life”. It’s an inspiring, beautiful way to stay relevant in the scene and industry. If you’re putting yourselves in these artists’ shoes, wouldn’t it feel therapeutic and healing to make a record like this?
All throughout four tracks, the same feel is there, but — in a way to explain it — in different fonts. There’d always be a moment for guitar, adlib, instrumental, the way everything is delivered is almost comparable, but it all means different things and topics. “You Drag” gives off the thriller, old money ambience, whereas “Possible” has catchy guitar parts. “My Universe” and “Daylight” share a similar dynamic.
The first track stands out, which from a listener’s perspective, is crucial to keep the attention on the experience. These lines from “You Drag” are remarkable: “When you’re 55 / Will you still feel alive? / Will I see you again?”, “When you’re 56 / Will you know all the tricks? / Will I see you again?” It’s as though talking about multiple things at once: being physically and mentally or spiritually present in this realm, because not all people still feel like that at fifty-five. This also led to the realization that perhaps being in this world longer than the rest of us makes for meaningful art like this EP.
Overall, this is definitely something worth your time. The production, instrumentals, what it all means, come together beautifully. It’s like looking at yourself in a mirror after not doing so for a hot minute; and, it’s especially significant when you’re into the indie rock genre with a knack for beautiful songwriting.
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About the Author
A psychology major with a knack for music and writing. Mostly indulges in alternative rock, indie, and pop punk.
