Derek Lee Goodreid's latest single, ‘Trashfire,’ is here, delivering a confessional new side to his much-loved sound. Carved from the late hours of a demanding recording session, this alt-country anthem reveals the artist's internal wrestling match with perfectionism and self-doubt. It's a raw, unflinching look at the creative chaos that erupts when chasing an ideal collides with the reality of a song's messy, yet authentic, vitality.
The single is a departure from the more upbeat, rockabilly-tinged ‘This New Year’ that arrived in January. This track is a darker, more introspective journey, born from the depths of a gruelling recording process for his upcoming album, ‘Curse of Satan’s Jukebox’. The song is a testament to the struggle of turning personal turmoil into art. As Goodreid puts it, "This song came from a place of raw vulnerability." He lays bare the experience of being "caught in the flames of your own self-doubt and self-destruction," yet ultimately finding the strength to emerge stronger.
What elevates ‘Trashfire’ beyond a simple cathartic exercise is the global team of musicians Goodreid assembled. Venezuelan bassist Héctor Ruano, American drummer Brendan Kuntz, and American pedal steel player Jeremy King each contribute a distinct flavour to the track. Goodreid acknowledges their impact, stating, "Each of them brought something uniquely their own, elevating the song far beyond what I could have done on my own." Ruano's bass provides a deep, resonant foundation, while Kuntz's drumming delivers a driving, almost relentless energy. King's pedal steel adds a haunting, cinematic quality, weaving through the song with emotive grace.
The result is a rich tapestry of sound that mirrors the emotional complexity of Goodreid's lyrics. The track's raw edge and compelling urgency create a visceral experience, drawing listeners into the artist's internal struggle. There's a tangible sense of fire and grit, reminiscent of a Drive By Truckers-era Jason Isbell, yet uniquely Goodreid's own. His voice, carrying both grit and vulnerability, serves as the perfect vessel for this tale of creative and personal redemption.
‘Trashfire’ is more than just a preview of the upcoming album; it’s a challenge to embrace the imperfections, to step into the fire and find strength in the ashes. For fans of artists like Zach Bryan and Sturgill Simpson, ‘Trashfire’ offers a dose of unfiltered, honest alt-country that burns with a fierce, unwavering intensity.
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