The intensity of the instruments towards the end of the song is fantastic, brilliantly representing the internal conflict that exists within one’s mind. One, thus, becomes the “Sullen Mind”, a person who is unwillingly accepting his situation. The entrapment of the small town, though, can leave one powerless and easily influenced. He is “The Great and Undecided”, a self-deprecating description about his indecisive nature. Beneath the cool, romantic strumming of his acoustic guitar, Walker is caught in reflection, trying to rationalize his choice to move away. “The Great and Undecided” and “Sullen Mind” build on “The Roundabout”. On the other hand, there is relief to know that you can always come back to a place that is familiar and that you can call home. On the one hand, there is an exasperation that the town and its inhabitants, including old friends, have changed very little, yet you have. The song is Walker returning to his hometown, and the polarizing feelings that come with the visit. “The Roundabout” is literally a trip down memory lane and the intersection between the past and present. The keyboards, rhythm guitar, percussion, and double bass are all also extremely exquisite, like a small symphony playing folk-rock. The arrangements on the song, though, is what is most notable, as Walker’s expert guitar skills take center stage. “The Halfwit in Me” has Walker recalling his adolescence and naivete about the world around him.
The roundabout by ryley walker lyrics series#
Whereas Primrose Green felt like a series of short stories, Golden Sings is filled with personal memories and is more introspective. There is, however, one subtle difference. The same classic approach and warm intimacy are repeated on his new album, Golden Sings That Have Been Sung.
It was a trailblazing record for bringing the musicianship back into music. His previous album, Primrose Green, was a beautiful affair that re-introduced us to the music of our parents and grandparents. Ryley Walker is the Simon and Garfunkel, Nick Drake, John Taylor, Jackson Browne, and John Denver of his generation, which makes it a really humbling experience to review his work. He is also a brilliant composer, who plies his craft in ’70s folk and folk-rock as oppose to classical music.
He is unlike many in his craft, as he is not solely a graceful singer-songwriter and masterful guitar player. Ryley Walker may only be 26-years old, but he already has established himself as one of America’s great artists.
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