Sometimes you see a film trailer and you automatically file it under ‘wait until 1080p is on The Pirate Bay.’ Sometimes it looks so good you’ll settle for the shaky handicam recording just to watch it now.
Ryan Hemsworth’s new record, Alone for the First Time,’ is out November 4th via Last Gang, but you don’t have to wait to listen and you won’t be promoting piracy for your instant gratification, either. Right now and for the next few hours, you can stream Alone for the First Time (including accompanying visuals) on Boiler Room’s website. The visuals are basically separate videos for each track, starring Hemsworth himself and directed by Brian Vu. Surprisingly, I turned on the live stream as ‘Snow in Newark’ started, so I had a reference point once I found a track list.
There is a real sense of space in the film. During ‘Blemish,’ Hemsworth sits at a table in front of two lit candles. Is he bored? Anxious? Content? I guarantee that this is probably the most time he has had to stare at candles in a long time, considering his travel itinerary. The visuals for the other tracks are similar: different shots of an empty bed, Ryan under a sheet, etc. Everything is still and alone.
The music is no different. Even the most uptempo track, ‘Surrounded,’ has a lonely, minor feel. But it’s not a sad thing. Or a bad thing. “Cup of soup and the covers ’round,” croons the vocalist on ‘By Myself.’ Sometimes it’s comforting to be home, sick, maybe, on the couch, wrapped in a blanket. Sometimes it’s comforting to be alone.
There is no doubt in my mind that this will be one of the most discussed recordings of 2014. Whether you’re alone or with friends, head over to Boiler Room to stream Alone for the First Time. It’s also available to preorder at Last Gang Records.
Listen to ‘Snow in Newark’ here:
Read what we had to say about ‘Snow in Newark,’ the first single from Alone for the First Time, here: fuxwithit.com/2014/09/29/ryan-hemsworth-snow-in-newark-2/
Watch the official video for ‘Snow in Newark, here:
