Naarm/Melbourne’s Winter McQuinn has released “Always Looking,” the second single from his forthcoming collaborative album, “Where Are We Now?”, slated for release on September 19th via Third Eye Stimuli Records. The track features lead vocals from bedroom pop artist Dylan Young (Way Dynamic) and instrumental backing from members of Sydney’s alt-country outfit, Hot Apple Band.
“Always Looking” is a masterclass in 70s-inspired sound, blending the sophisticated soft-rock energy of Steely Dan with the introspective folk sensibilities of Nick Drake. Dylan Young’s poignant lyrics delve into the modern anxieties of comparison culture, particularly in the age of social media. This juxtaposition of a “rockin’ groove” with themes of anguish creates a compelling listening experience.
The single is accompanied by a whimsical hand-animated music video created by Melbourne artist Millar Wileman. Employing a rich tapestry of claymation, illustration, and found video, Wileman crafts a quirky and abstract visual world that playfully interprets the song’s lyrical depth.
The track’s creation was as organic as its sound. McQuinn recounts:
“I had the rhythm guitar idea and was using it in another song which I showed Jack to which he said ‘all due respect, but we’re gonna come up with something better’. He then jumped on the piano and hammered out the part that went really well with my guitar. I jumped on the drums whilst he jumped on the bass and we finished the song that night. From there I sent the instrumental to Dylan Young and he replied two hours later with the finished vocal part (he’s a wild man!). I sent the song to Lewis Mosley (Hot Apple Band) after this and he wrote and recorded the lead guitar and flute parts of my dreams.”
Pre-Order the album: https://www.thirdeyestimuli.com/tes045-wherearewenow
