Side Saddle‘s latest single, Wine & Spirits, marks a poignant return for the band following their acclaimed Waltermelon EP. Lead by singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Ian McGuinness, Side Saddle’s music is characterized by infectious indie folk melodies and introspective storytelling. Now based in North Texas, the band is set to release their upcoming EP, Forever and a Little While, later this spring, produced and mixed by Peter Katis, known for his work with The National and Hozier. Wine & Spirits serves as an introduction to this new chapter, offering a beautiful and contemplative narrative that explores the emotional resonance of a late-night walk haunted by loss. McGuinness’s poignant lyrics and evocative melodies invite listeners to join Side Saddle on a journey of reflection and renewal.
“This tune is about my wife’s best friend/soulmate who passed away 10 years ago, before my wife and I had met,” shares McGuinness. “I did my best to honor their relationship while delicately inserting my own fear of death. The voice you hear during the bridge is actually an audio clip of Makenna (the deceased) when she and my wife were at a Tarot card reading. Makenna asked the reader ‘was there anything else that connected us’, curious to know if there was something mystical, or otherworldly that could explain their connection. The reader responded, their bond transcended this lifetime and in each of their many lifetimes together, one would be the caretaker for the other as they endured something tragic.”
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