Photo by Ron Yamasaki
Today, L.A. alternative-punk band Ways Away share their latest track “Happy With What I Have”. Warm guitars are laced with bountiful melodies boosted by earnest lyrics of self-acceptance. Serving as the third single from the band’s upcoming album, Torch Songs, set for release October 14th on Other People Records, it exemplifies a softer-sounding side of the record. Ways Away has also announced an album release show set for November 4th in Los Angeles at Genghis Cohen with support from Soft Blue Shimmer, Absinthe Father, and Melted.
Speaking on the lyrics, vocalist Jesse Barnett states: “‘Happy With What I Have’ is a song about the rejection of a system that runs us ragged and makes us feel like we’ll never have what we need or want. A system that makes us feel like we’ll never be enough. It’s a song about dropping this system that hates us and learning to truly love myself and love the people in my life. I’m tired of chasing a shadow that I won’t ever catch. I’m tired of ignoring all of the amazingly beautiful things in my life. For the first time I can say that, a heart full of love, l’m happy with who I am, what I’ve done and what I have. I don’t need anything else.”
Ways Away’s members pack a notable rock resume, comprised of guitarist Sergie Loobkoff (Samiam, Knapsack, Racquet Club), vocalist/guitarist Jesse Barnett (Stick to Your Guns, Wish You Were Here), drummer Jared Shavelson (BoySetsFire, The Hope Conspiracy), and bassist Ian Smith (Racquet Club). The band made their debut in 2020 with their Ways Away LP and build upon their storied sound on the upcoming Torch Songs album. Produced and mixed by Beau Burchell (Saosin) and mastered by Mike Kalajian at Rogue Planet, the eleven tracks on the record pack a punch, from fast, gritty punk tracks to more melodic numbers. The record explores themes of anti-capitalism and living in the current state of the world, as well as approaching more personal moments about love and loss.
Torch Songs is available for vinyl pre-order now through Other People Records.
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