Double J Pick of the Week
The latest single from New Jersey jangle-pop revivalists Real Estate is just another indicator of how good their Atlas album is. Martin Courtney’s vocals are more assured than ever, the melodious lead guitar lines will make you equally comforted and wistful.
What’s even better is that comforting and wistful matches the theme of the song perfectly. While the song’s film clip sees the band having quite a nice time in Mexico City, its lyrics reflect on some of the not so pleasant feelings Courtney has had on the road.
I had to hear you just to feel near you
I know it’s not true
But it’s been so long
Songs about the perils of touring in a successful rock band can be hard to swallow, but the homesickness and love-sickness is palpable here. It’s not overwrought, but it feels real and no doubt there are plenty who will relate.
It’s the kind of timeless pop that could have been released any time in the past (or future) 50 years and it’d sound fresh. Simple, but brilliant.