Sean Kiely’s Heartfelt Ode in “Long Live the Low”
This week, Makin Waves shines a spotlight on Jersey City’s own Sean Kiely and his forthcoming single, “Long Live the Low.” The track serves as the title piece for an album that promises to delve into the beauty of the unnoticed aspects of life. Sean's song embodies both melancholy and hope, inviting listeners to appreciate the minutiae and chaos that often lie beneath the surface of day-to-day living.
What Inspired “Long Live the Low”?
In a recent interview, Sean shared his creative process behind the song, noting that it sprang from a profound line in Theodore Roethke’s poem: “Hope, look, create, or drink and die.” This potent phrase serves as a thematic underpinning, as Sean contemplates the duality of hope and disillusionment. “If the mansion on the hill gets a song, the weeds coming up through the sidewalk deserve one too,” he asserts, captured perfectly the essence of his latest work.
The Collaborative Spirit Behind the Music
“Long Live the Low” is a testament to collaboration, with significant contributions from talented musicians like Chris Morrissey on bass and Jean Rohe on backing vocals. Sean emphasizes their impact: "Chris carves a path that is both grooving and fully present with the lyric, while Jean elevates everything she touches." The intertwining of their talents yields a rich listening experience that captures the song's lyrical depth.
Production and Engineering: A Blend of Local Talent
The production of the album took place at Restoration Sound in Brooklyn, revealing yet another layer of community engagement and artistic synergy. Sean worked alongside engineer Lorenzo Wolff, with additional recordings done in Jersey City featuring accomplished artists from bands such as Railroad Earth. It’s this blend of local talent that infuses authenticity and local pride into the music.
A Local Anthem for the Modest and the Real
“Long Live the Low” is more than just a song; it resonates as an anthem for those who embrace life’s subtle intricacies. As Sean describes, it’s a tribute to “the small stuff underfoot that nobody's looking at.” In today’s fast-paced world, this celebration of humility encourages listeners to slow down and appreciate the quiet, yet essential aspects of life.
Engagement with the New Jersey Arts Scene
Scheduled for release on October 16, this track and the ensuing album are poised to make waves within the New Jersey arts community. As Sean prepares for his album launch, he invites the public to experience his music live, starting with performances throughout September and October. This gives local audiences a chance to personally connect with Sean’s art and the vibrant NJ performance scene.
The New Jersey music community continues to thrive through concerts, arts festivals, and community-driven initiatives. “Long Live the Low” fits in well with the broader landscape of New Jersey indie music and resonates with efforts to highlight grassroots talent from the region.
Your Part in Supporting Local Artists
As we anticipate the release of “Long Live the Low,” remember the role you play in supporting artists within our community. Attending local performances, sharing music on social media, and simply spreading the word about artists like Sean Kiely contributes to a thriving arts culture in New Jersey. Together, let’s continue to celebrate the creativity that flourishes in our neighborhoods.
For those eager to catch Sean’s music live, mark your calendars for his performances at Colony in Woodstock and Jalopy Theatre in Brooklyn. Don't forget to check streaming platforms like Apple Music and Spotify to immerse yourself in this gripping new single.
Write A Comment