Amidst the tumultuous landscape of the COVID-19 pandemic, a new musical force emerged that would come to be known as Farewell to Summer. Rooted in the shared experiences of its members and drawing inspiration from the echoes of eras past, this band embarked on a creative journey that would culminate in their debut EP, “hello, fall.”
Comprising vocalist and guitarist Shane Radford (formerly Lost in the City), bassist Danny Davis (formerly Lost in the City), and drummer TJ Murphy (formerly Mime Game), Farewell to Summer emerged as a collaborative venture born from a sense of restlessness and the desire to channel their energy into something meaningful. As the pandemic confined them to their homes and boredom began to take hold, the trio found solace and purpose in the art of songwriting.
The band’s name, Farewell to Summer, holds a deeper meaning than its surface interpretation. As young musicians, the members felt that the pandemic marked a significant turning point in their lives – a transition from the vibrant “summer” of their youth to the contemplative “autumn” of adulthood. This thematic thread of seasons shifting and emotions evolving would become the cornerstone of their musical identity.
Their debut EP, “hello, fall.,” is a manifestation of this very essence. The four tracks within the EP are not just songs; they are chapters in a narrative that resonates with anyone who has experienced the ebb and flow of life’s emotions. “VHS Remember,” with its evocative imagery of nostalgic memories, sets the stage for a sonic journey through introspection and growth. “forgive///forget” explores the complexities of human relationships, echoing the struggle to move on from past wounds.
With “A little bit forward,” Farewell to Summer captures the anticipation and uncertainty that accompanies stepping into the unknown. The track serves as a testament to their resilience and willingness to embrace change, akin to the turning leaves of autumn. Finally, “13 seconds” serves as a contemplative finale, inviting listeners to reflect on the fleeting moments that shape their existence.
The EP’s musical landscape draws from a rich tapestry of influences spanning the 90s to the present day. The band masterfully weaves together the nostalgia of mid-2000s pop-punk powerhouses like Fall Out Boy, Cartel, Green Day, blink-182, Jimmy Eat World, and Taking Back Sunday, infusing their sound with a contemporary touch that resonates with a diverse audience.
Recorded under the guidance of Bret Liber (Young Medicine) at Red Roof Productions, “hello, fall.” is a testament to Farewell to Summer’s commitment to authenticity and storytelling. The recording process, spanning the years 2022 and 2023, allowed the band to refine their sound and give life to their creative vision.
Complementing the EP’s sonic journey is the music video for “VHS (Remember),” a visual spectacle that mirrors the emotional landscape of Farewell to Summer’s music. The video seamlessly blends snapshots of nostalgia and transition, inviting viewers to connect with the EP’s themes on a visual and emotional level.
As Farewell to Summer steps into the spotlight, they invite audiences to join them on a transformative journey – one that resonates with the seasons of the soul and celebrates the beauty of change. With “hello, fall.,” Farewell to Summer welcomes listeners to embrace their past, reflect on their present, and look forward to the ever-evolving chapters that lie ahead.