Based in Toledo, Ohio, this endeavor is not just an ordinary band—it serves as a communal hub where various creative energies come together to realize Jonathan Rodebaugh’s eclectic musical ideas. Jonathan’s music exploration started at a young age, ignited by his interest in his parents’ vinyl records and receiving his own record player at four years old. The early things that shaped his musical preferences, such as Prince’s “Delirious” and Huey Lewis and the News’ “The Heart of Rock and Roll,” formed the basis for his diverse taste in music. At eight years old, Jonathan began playing the upright bass and delved into songwriting, a passion he carried into bands such as 13B, Safety In Numbers, The Boos, The Sanderlings, and The Foxtail Method.
Midwest Royal stands out due to its unique approach to music that breaks away from traditional genres. Jonathan thinks that the creative process of a song should be guided by its essence, not by a particular genre. This belief is evident in the varied and extensive repertoire of Midwest Royal, where each track is viewed as an individual entity, able to venture into any musical genre it desires. Jonathan’s collaborative nature is at the core of Midwest Royal, as he collaborates with a variety of skilled musicians, producers, and engineers to maximize the potential of his songs. This group effort guarantees that each song represents the strength of working together, highlighting the distinct contributions of each artist participating.
Midwest Royal’s most recent track, “Bourbon,” dropped on September 3rd, 2024, is a standout addition to the group’s continuously evolving portfolio. In this song, Jonathan Rodebaugh and his team of musicians explore the essence of outlaw country, a style that has always been a platform for the rebellious and disenchanted. “Bourbon” not only honors the past legends but also creates a unique presence in today’s music scene by merging traditional aspects with a modern touch. The outcome is a song that seems timeless and incredibly pertinent, showcasing music’s ability to encapsulate the intricacies of human life.
From the initial note, “Bourbon” immediately transports the listener into a musical environment that feels both known and new. The song starts with a relaxed beat that immediately brings to mind the dusty country roads and dimly lit bars commonly found in country music. The instruments are skillfully designed, with every aspect adding to a complex, multi-dimensional quality that seems natural and effortless. The drums maintain a consistent, leisurely rhythm that anchors the song, while the guitars interlace, enhancing the richness and complexity of the music. The incorporation of instruments without seams is a key feature of Midwest Royal’s method, underscoring the significance of working together to develop music with a greater impact.
In terms of vocals, “Bourbon” is defined by a strong and expressive performance that accurately portrays the song’s themes of defiance and self-reflection. The singer’s deep and resonant voice adds credibility to the song’s storyline. This voice does not beg or convince; it merely asserts, with a calm sense of power, the truths it has learned. When the vocals blend with the music, the song becomes almost meditative, prompting the listener to contemplate the lyrics. The vocal delivery is slow-paced, giving each line time to fully resonate before moving on to the next. The tempo is vital for the song’s effect, allowing the audience to understand the message and experience the emotions conveyed.
In terms of lyrics, “Bourbon” excellently tells a story with colorful descriptions and powerful language that depict a world both stunning and damaged. The line “I woke to the sound of a mounting revolution and found some shelter at the end of the bar” effectively introduces the song’s story, capturing the feeling of disappointment and the quest for comfort that runs throughout the music. The lyrics address both personal struggles and broader societal issues, making them specific and universal. Having this two-way focus is one of the song’s biggest advantages, making it able to connect with listeners in various ways.
The musical arrangement of the track is also remarkable, as every instrument contributes significantly to the overall mood of the song. The Hammond B3 organ by Scott Guberman brings a soulful richness to the song, enveloping the vocals in a comforting hug with its warm tones. Ben Helson’s precise and expressive lead guitar playing adds a sense of urgency to the song, creating a beautiful contrast with the more relaxed rhythm section. Bryan Daste’s pedal steel guitar contributes a hint of sadness to the event, its sorrowful sounds reflecting the song’s messages of grief and yearning. These components come together to produce a sound that is both intricate and profoundly emotional, enhancing the lyrical message flawlessly.
Backing vocals in “Bourbon” stand out for their ability to enhance the track’s complexity and richness. Nanya Ijeh, Samuel Osaroekiye, and Ralph Okoro bring the song to greater levels with their harmonies, infusing it with a soulful energy that is strong and moving. Those background vocals are not just thrown in at the last minute; they play a crucial role in the song’s arrangement, enhancing the overall performance of the lead vocals. The interaction between the main and supporting vocals generates a dynamic that is captivating and emotionally powerful, pulling the audience further into the story of the song.
Midwest Royal excels in the production of “Bourbon” as well. The song is expertly crafted, with every component thoughtfully blended to form a unified piece. The blend is crisp and transparent, enabling individual instruments and vocal parts to stand out while also enhancing the overall music. The meticulous focus on detail is apparent in all parts of the track, from how the instruments are positioned in the mix to the understated application of reverb and other effects. The outcome is a refined and expert sound that maintains the song’s raw, emotional essence.
As the song progresses, it becomes evident that “Bourbon” is not just a musical composition but also a declaration. The song explores themes of resistance, disillusionment, and the quest for meaning in a world that appears to be crumbling, using its lyrics, instrumentation, and vocal delivery. However, the song also encompasses a feeling of perseverance and optimism, with the idea that even in the bleakest moments, there is a cause worth standing up for. This dual nature is what makes “Bourbon” so captivating and impactful, a track that will continue to resonate with listeners even after the music ends.
To sum up, “Bourbon” by Midwest Royal is an impressive display of songwriting, performance, and production. It captures the essence of outlaw country while also innovating and expanding the genre. The song’s complex sound, along with its moving lyrics and emotional vocals, set it apart in the group’s collection and are a must-hear for fans of old and new country music. Midwest Royal has once again demonstrated their strength, producing a song that is both intellectually stimulating and musically fulfilling. The song “Bourbon” offers more than just music; it provides an opportunity for the listener to contemplate, experience emotions, and establish a profound connection.
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