As we slowly and guardedly make our way to the gates leading out of 2020, songsmith Lou Brindell delivers a poignant piece to help us through the other side. “Transcend” is an acoustic, melodic and minimalistic soliloquy filled with cautious optimism about what’s possible amid the dread. The multi-talented artist wrote and played all instruments with the exception of drums which were supplied by Caleb Fry.
Regarding the song, Brindell shares, “I know it’s been a particularly bad year but I’ve noticed a theme the past few. People seem to want to blame the year itself, and put energy toward this idea that when the calendar flips and the year changes everything will be better. I’ve noticed it since at least 2016. While I can see the value in a psychological clean slate, I also believe it’s a naive way to deflect personal accountability. Until we realize that WE need to change, the number that the new year represents is completely inconsequential.” He continues, “2020 was difficult for sure, but part of that difficulty was because we’re beginning to reckon with the societal poison of white supremacy that has been there all along, and how it effects everything from P.O.C.’s personal safety to the overall healthcare of our entire nation. Healing is difficult but undeniably necessary. This song is about transcending superficial hardships with a re-emphasis on selfless care for others, and allowing space for love. Love for yourself, your family, extended family, overall community all the way to the macro idea of all people that share this planet. I believe that’s something that is more necessary now than ever before in my lifetime, but will always be relevant.” Hit play and absorb this profound work of Hip Hop art. -IZ-REAL
