“I get up to the sound of your heartbeat babe”  Whether intentional or not, this lyric about waking up is an ingenious way to begin Side Saddle’s new EP, Forever and a Little While.  Fronted by singer-songwriter Ian McGuinness, the Texas-based four-piece has created four captivating songs that span several genres including power pop, indie folk, and alt rock.  Opening track All My Days is a catchy, feel-good song and is nearly impossible to listen to while staying still.  It contains lyrics such as “all I really want is to hold you in my arms”which is relatable to anyone who has ever been in love.  

The songs on this EP sound absolutely fantastic and that is no doubt in large part to the prolific producer, Peter Katis, who has worked with many alternative and indie rock bands including Death Cab for Cutie and The National.  One of the more creative musical choices is in the song Bottom of the Ninth with the sound of bells which is a combination of piano, celesta, and vibraphone.  This subdued track is a standout on the EP not only for how it sounds but primarily for its relatable lyrics “it feels like I’m losing in the bottom of the ninth”Everyone has had times in their life where they have experienced failure but what this song does really well is not dwell in this mindset but offer some hope at the end with the line “you can turn this dark into something light”

While this is a short EP, it is apparent that the band put thought into the sequencing as each track is quite different from the one before it.  The third track, Moving Out West, picks up the pace again and is a song the band crafted to have a road trip feel.  The band has been open about therapy and the importance of mental health and this song contains a subtle metaphor comparing therapy and self-reflection to taking your car to get serviced with the lyric “I open up the hood and take a look around”  

The EP ends with the emotional climax, Wine & Spirits.  This song was written about Makenna, McGuinness’ wife’s best friend, who passed away a decade ago.  There is an audio clip of Makenna played during the bridge and knowing the story behind the song really adds an element of depth.  The closing line on the EP “it’s been a weird year and I miss you” is a perfect note to go out on and is a lyric that people will surely attach their own meaning to, especially post-pandemic.

Fans of artists including Death Cab for Cutie, Iron & Wine, and Christian Lee Hutson will surely find something to love on Forever and a Little While.  While a longer album would have been appreciated, one silver lining to this shorter collection is the ability to play the songs more, which will unquestionably lead to new lyrical discoveries and personal connections.  

Rating: 8.5/10

Release Date: May 10, 2024

Tracklisting:

1) All My Days

2) Bottom of the Ninth

3) Moving Out West

4) Wine & Spirits

Reviewed by Andrew Bachna