A songwriter living outside of Nashville, TN, Trace Faulkner has shared new single ‘Talking Tough’, a standout track from his latest album ‘Dead Planets’. A miniature sci-fi drama, the song is a sonically charged and emotionally vibrant tale about “keeping others at arm’s length to keep yourself from getting hurt.”

Crafted by Faulkner, alongside Benjamin Stranger, the song is a deeply personal exploration of intimacy versus isolation. Faulkner, a talented songwriter with a diverse musical background, uses the track as a way to explore our innermost moments, stepping into the human tendency to shield ourselves from emotional vulnerability. The lyrics, poignant and personal, offer moments like, "It’s all talking tough, until you’ve had enough, so why you gotta say so much to me?" It’s a raw, honest query about the futility of emotional armour when faced with the inevitable pain of connection.

Faulkner's musical palette draws from a wide array of influences, from the orchestral pop of ELO to the dreamy soundscapes of Galaxie 500, Sixteen Deluxe and Sparklehorse. These inspirations have melded into a sound that can veer from the melancholic twang of a Texas cowboy to expansive, space-infused anthems. ‘Talking Tough’ leans heavily into the latter, creating a soundscape that is both nostalgic and forward-thinking.

Recorded in Faulkner’s home studio, the track features his own instrumental prowess, augmented by Stranger’s electric guitar. The result is a richly layered composition, where cosmic synths and powerful guitar riffs weave through atmospheric textures. Faulkner's vocals strike a perfect balance, shifting between drawn-out melodies and moments of raw, heartfelt expression.

The song's strength lies in its ability to blend contrasting elements. Despite the weighty subject matter, the track is undeniably energetic, with its sonic textures creating a sense of both vulnerability and soaring liberation. It’s a testament to Faulkner’s ability to craft music that is both deeply personal and universally relatable, a cosmic exploration of the human heart's complex dance between connection and self-preservation.

For more from Trace Faulkner, including the new album, connect with him today on Bandcamp.