After a decade spent behind the drums for other artists, Max Norton is stepping into the spotlight on his own with new single, ‘Chains’. An artist who has already graced stages at major festivals like Glastonbury and Coachella, as well as TV shows like Later with Jools Holland and David Letterman, Max is writing a new chapter in his career, and ‘Chains’ is a perfect re-introduction.
A few years back, the Tampa-born, Nashville-bred musician began writing and recording his own material. It was an intensely personal journey which culminated in his debut EP, ‘Each One Is A Movie’, released last year.As he explained, he "wrote, recorded, produced, and played every instrument on each song," a demanding process, but one he felt was essential for genuine self-expression.
It's a path he's since committed to continuing, and his latest solo offering is something truly special. The first release relocating back to the US, after spending a year and a half based in London, ‘Chains’ is a delicate yet potent shot of indie rock that gently demands to be heard. Beginning with a stripped-back combination of Max's vocals and acoustic guitar, it builds gracefully into a powerful anthem featuring an undeniable hook.
The track holds a raw and expressive quality that shines alongside carefully crafted instrumentation. Subtle moments glisten and ignite through the acoustic backdrop, and the sing-along chorus digs in perfectly. It’s a song that instantly draws comparisons to artists like the much-missed Scott Hutchison, offering a unique blend of heart, truth, and perfect indie rock.
Max sums up the feel of his new single perfectly, "’Chains’ is an anthem for the summer. Breaking away, disappearing, and coming back around. Play it loud!"
Fans in the US can catch Max live in Florence, Alabama, on July 25th and September 13th, with more dates expected to be announced soon. For more, be sure to follow him on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and X.