I'd say sonically "Wayside" is closest, but honestly all of the singles are a bit of a feint. This record is definitely a return to the sound of Shape and Destroy for the most part, with more of the big chorus melodies from the best songs on The Weakness: "Breakdown", "Holy Shit", "Mending Song". Honestly my biggest criticism after 10 listens is that I'd want just one more uptempo song in the vein of "Pickleball".
I think he's done a good job picking singles, but 3 of my 5 favorite songs on the album still haven't been released. Me and You Give Up The Ghost Pickleball Wayside Twisted Root
last tidbit for now: the violin on "House in the Country" reminds me of Phoebe Bridgers' "Graceland Too"
If the label really wants to sell this record to people like me, they should make "a return to the sound of Shape and Destroy for the most part, with more of the big chorus melodies from the best songs on The Weakness" the quote on the hype sticker.
You pointed out my favorite 3 songs on The Weakness, and the strongest chorus’, so that bodes well for the combo you described. Wasn’t too excited for this but that lifts my spirits a bit
I've listened to lottttts of versions of Twisted Root at this point. Can't wait to finally hear the studio, although I'm sure it'll be identical to all the other versions. Waiting to Love You is far and away my least favorite of the official released singles. I don't like it at all sadly
Just listened to Twisted Root on that video listed above. Another absolute banger. Can’t wait to hear the recorded version. I’m 5/5 on these songs. This has already surpassed The Weakness for me. I’m all in and this has album of the year potential for me.
Can’t wait for folks to hear “Me and You”. Classic Ruston love song but there’s something about the rhythm that reminds me of The 1975.
I'm happy for Ruston, he found God and he found a love he never felt before. His lyrics and his production are brighter than ever. Like with the Bon Iver record earlier this year, I can't fully relate to the songs, as the title track, Half Past Three and Twisted Root resonate deep within me. I'm not there yet but I want to walk towards it 'cause, as Cameron Winter sang, love takes miles.
I was lukewarm on “Half Past Three” on first release but man has it grown on me in album context. Happy the album’s finally out for everybody when there’s a slight chill in the air, we could all use a little love in our lives these days.