Danish solo artist Dan Rose has just released a new EP inspired by, and written in, New York City. To The Bitter End is a collection of four lo-fi folk songs, taking a deep look at the climate crisis and the city that never sleeps. With his vocals and guitar recorded in single takes in front of one microphone, the EP offers a personal, unpolished feel.
“The title of the EP is a friendly nod and dedication to the legendary venue The Bitter End in New York’s East Village, where the likes of Bob Dylan, Pete Seeger and Jackson Browne used to perform,” says Dan Rose. “The heart of this EP was written in venues and bars in New York.”
To The Bitter End kicks off with “We Need Someone To Take Charge,” a lo-fi indie rock gem. It’s accessible and catchy, with a captivating energy that makes you want to move along with it. It features impassioned vocals and a message worth paying close attention to. Next is “Don’t Be An Asshole,” and how can you argue with a title like that? This one has a mellower, easier sound, and “was written after a night out at the bar and concert venue Arlene’s Grocery on Manhattan’s Lower East Side”, says the singer-songwriter. “Behind the bar was a sign that said “don’t be an asshole with the tips”. Caring reaps benefits for everyone and in this song I compare it to taking care of our planet before it’s too late, before the final bill has to be paid.”
If you’re a Bob Dylan fan, “The Bench In The Secret Gardens” has a definite Dylan feel, which fits this artist and subject perfectly. It’s a song about being hopeful that the climate debate can move in a more positive direction, but being unsure of how to get there. The EP ends with “Everything Changes On 86th Street,” with a feeling of hope, unpolished and gritty; the perfect bookend to a meaningful collection of songs.
Overall, Dan Rose’s lo-fi approach gives this EP a feeling of utter sincerity. It’s raw, intimate, and feels like an important conversation among friends. These four songs bring a classic folk feel that isn’t often heard these days, but that is sorely needed – it harkens back to a time when folk and rock were full of meaning, rallying listeners to create a change. His music has a certain undeniable charm, which only helps to get his message through to listeners. Let To The Bitter End be your wake-up call.
Stream To The Bitter End on your preferred platform:
Spotify / Bandcamp / Apple Music
Follow Dan Rose on Facebook / Instagram
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This review made possible by SubmitHub
