Buckley's Angel, the brainchild of LA-based multi-instrumentalist Michael Kelly, has dropped a new track, ‘WHY’, and it’s a proper earworm. Kelly, known for his work with other bands, steps out solo once again, this time offering up something a bit different from your standard breakup tune.
Far from your typical break-up song, ‘WHY’ isn’t about lost love in the romantic sense, but rather the sting of a friendship unexpectedly gone sour. As Kelly himself puts it, "Like some breakups I've had, this one came completely out of the blue. People naturally grow apart but this one stung a little." And you can definitely feel that sense of bewildered hurt woven into the fabric of the song.
Musically, ‘WHY’ is a bit of a beast in the best possible way. It throws you straight into the deep end with a whirlwind of sounds that somehow manage to feel both intricate and totally accessible. A searing guitar riff crashes in, backed by some seriously punchy drums that get your head nodding instantly. Then come the vocals, delivered with a surprisingly delicate touch that floats effortlessly over the heavier instrumentation. It’s this contrast that really makes the track stand out.
There’s a stellar, almost shimmering guitar line that dances beneath the weighty bass, creating a perfect equilibrium. Dotted throughout each chorus are these soaring cries of "Why?" They resonate with a raw emotion that’s both vulnerable and powerful, making you feel the weight of that lost connection.
‘WHY’ isn’t a track that lets you sit still. It's a rollercoaster of sound, full of unexpected twists and turns, but ultimately landing on its feet as a cathartic indie rock anthem. It’s the kind of song you can imagine belting out at the top of your lungs, questioning the universe right along with Kelly.
For more from Buckley’s Angel, be sure to check out the band on Instagram, Facebook, and X.