Debuting on January 18th, “The Journey” stands as the inaugural single from BACKSTROM’s much-anticipated debut album, “The Carousel.” This melodic and easy-listening country song, free from the pitfalls of cliché, offers a poignant exploration of life’s challenges and enduring values. A unique aspect of BACKSTROM’s musical journey lies in the collaborative effort with a talented ensemble of session musicians, resulting in a rich and resonant sound.
While BACKSTROM operates as a solo project with the songwriter being the only official member, the debut album showcases the talents of exceptional session musicians. Bart Topher takes the vocal lead on eight songs and contributes lyrics to three. Fransisco Paz commands the drums and percussion, Luca Giannotti handles guitars on folk-oriented tracks and also contributes to bass, while Kimberly Faith provides harmonies on six songs.
The union of these diverse talents originated from the virtual realm, specifically the online platform Fiverr.com. This unique approach to assembling a musical team highlights the modern, collaborative nature of the music-making process.
“The Journey,” in isolation, draws inspiration from legends like Johnny Cash and the Rolling Stones. The song transcends typical country boundaries, blending classic influences with a contemporary flair.
While live performances and festival appearances may not be on BACKSTROM’s agenda, the project is a testament to the significance of the songwriting craft. The focus remains on delivering meaningful, well-crafted music rather than live spectacle.
One review captures the essence of “The Journey (feat. Bart Topher)” by stating, “BACKSTROM’s composition is more than a song; it’s a voyage into the depths of the human experience. It speaks of life’s journey, the resilience of the human spirit, and the ultimate discovery of what truly matters.”
The album’s creation involved an intriguing process. Beginning with a demo, BACKSTROM enlisted various session musicians to contribute their expertise remotely. This collaborative effort resulted in a “home-made” production, with Gabe Wold handling the mixing and mastering, and Tommy Jones contributing to the English lyrics.
“The Journey” encapsulates the essence of the entire album project. It delves into the theme of perseverance during tough times and reflects on the core elements that truly matter in life. This overarching message sets the tone for “The Carousel” and establishes BACKSTROM’s commitment to delivering music with a purpose.
In the words of BACKSTROM, “It’s a very easy-listening song with a good message.” This succinct statement encapsulates the essence of “The Journey,” a musical offering that not only captivates the ears but also resonates with a meaningful and uplifting message.
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