Dynamic, personal, and nostalgic – this is how X Ambassadors describe their new album Townie. The trio, consisting of brothers Sam Nelson Harris (vocals, guitar) and Casey Harris (keys), along with Adam Levin (drums), has been a powerful force on the alternative charts for over a decade. Now, with the release of their fourth album on April 5, Townie marks a compelling new chapter for the band as they return to their upstate New York roots, specifically their hometown of Ithaca.
During 1824’s press conference, the trio and their guitarist Russ revealed some insight into the album’s creation. They shared that unlike their previous work, where songwriting felt scattered, Townie saw a more concentrated effort. Half of the songs were initiated by Sam in his home studio in LA, while the other half took shape during a two-week studio stretch in the town they grew up in.
Townie is a heartfelt musical journey featuring 12 songs that delve into the band’s personal experiences, memories, and reflections.
‘Sunoco’ and ‘Smoke On The Highway’ serve as nostalgic tributes to youthful adventures, with gentle guitar melodies and evocative storytelling capturing the essence of carefree days spent roaming their hometown streets. These tracks lay the foundation for the album’s thematic exploration of identity and belonging, drawing listeners into the intimate world of X Ambassadors’ upbringing.
In ‘Your Town,’ the band pays homage to influential figures from their past, notably Sam’s teacher, Todd Peterson, who passed away in 2021. The song is a poignant reflection on the impact of mentors and community, underscored by heartfelt lyrics and a stirring vocal performance. Todd’s voicemail playing at the song’s conclusion adds a deeply personal touch, further cementing its emotional resonance.
‘I’m Not Really Here’ delves into themes of self-doubt and existential questioning, with dreamy melodies and introspective lyrics like “Something I can hold, ’cause I feel like I’m losing my grip on reality”. ‘Rashad’ is a heartfelt tribute to a friend gone too soon, exploring themes of loss and remembrance with raw emotion and honesty (“Said I’d live my life for the one that you could not, but it feels like I forgot”).
Stripped back and raw, ‘(first dam)’ transports listeners to the idyllic setting of a childhood swimming spot. With its autobiographical lyrics and introspective tone, the song delves into themes of attention-seeking and the fear of being invisible—a sentiment many can relate to. In 1824’s press conference, Sam speaks about that feeling: “Why do I do what I do for a living? Why am I putting my pain on display? Because I am afraid of being invisible.”
‘Fallout’ offers a peaceful yet melancholic reflection on past relationships and the lingering aftermath of heartbreak. Through soothing melodies and emotive vocals, X Ambassadors capture the pain of letting go while acknowledging the inevitability of moving forward. The next song ‘Women’s Jeans’, is a deeply personal track, delving into themes of identity and self-discovery. Lyrics like “Who am I now? What if I’ve changed my mind? ‘Cause I’m not who I thought I’d be” imply that life won’t always turn out as planned, it rather takes you on a ride that makes you question whether you’re just a passenger or if you have any autonomy.
‘Half-Life’ is a poignant ballad that touches the soul with its raw emotion and introspective lyrics. X Ambassadors weave a tale of longing and vulnerability, expressing the profound impact of finding love in the midst of life’s struggles. The song beautifully captures the feeling of living a half-hearted existence until love breathes new life into the soul.
Inspired by Sam’s relationship with his blind brother Casey, ‘Follow the Sound of My Voice’ delves into themes of guidance, connection, and resilience. With its heartfelt lyrics and gentle melody, the song navigates the complexities of love, loss, and the enduring bond between siblings. It’s a moving tribute to the power of companionship and the unwavering support that can light the way through life’s darkest moments. ‘Start a Band’ is a nostalgic anthem for dreamers and misfits, urging listeners to embrace their passions and pursue their dreams. With its infectious energy and infectious optimism, the song serves as a reminder that anything is possible with determination and perseverance.
X Ambassadors’ introspective journey culminates in the final track ‘No Strings,’ where they confront the desire to break free from their small-town confines while acknowledging its lasting influence. Reflecting on their experiences, they recognize the importance of exploration and self-discovery.
With this record, X Ambassadors deliver a collection of songs that deeply resonate with the human experience. From the nostalgic reminiscence of ‘Sunoco’ to the emotional depth of ‘Follow the Sound of My Voice,’ each track offers a unique journey through life’s highs and lows. Through their music, the band encourages the listener to reflect on their own stories and emotions, reminding us of the universal power of music to connect us all.
In essence, Townie is more than just an album; it’s a testament to the band’s evolution, embracing their past while bravely navigating the uncertainties of the present. X Ambassadors take their listeners along on a deeply personal journey, one that resonates with authenticity and raw emotion.
Written by: Justine Kostka
Edited by: Marieke Weeda
