Based out of Austin, Texas, StoryTeller is the creative outlet and solo venture of musician William Murray. With its roots in emo and pop-punk, the project embraces a flexible approach, shifting from vulnerable, stripped-back honesty to explosive, passionate crescendos. The new EP, In Passing, features four songs centered around personal stories of mental health.
“ …this EP is very personal to me,” he says. “Looking at different aspects of daily life through the lens of my mental health, which is not something I find easy to talk about but was therapeutic to write and get into the world. I hope it finds people who need it so they know they’re not alone.”
In Passing kicks off with “El Camino Real,” a track driven by intensity, featuring a huge pre-chorus that you can feel. The chorus adds a lively catchiness, and the killer guitar riffs work to constantly propel the song forward. Heavy moments are balanced well with melody, making for a dynamic opener. “Carry” sounds like it would easily find a home on rock radio, without sounding overly commercial or mainstream. It leans into an early 2000s heavy emo vibe that is perfectly executed, resulting in an anthemic, singalong style with relatable lyrics.
From there, we have the fast-paced and boppy punk sound of “Absent,” featuring driving drums and an infectiousness throughout. And while not technically a ballad, “Drown” is as close to a ballad in this genre as you can get. A fitting way to close out this collection of songs, this track carries emotion and heart that lingers after the final note.
Overall, the In Passing EP is eleven minutes of engaging pop-punk with the perfect amount of emo and aggression mixed in. Heartfelt and powerful, there’s no shortage of depth to the songwriting and musical delivery. With their important themes and sonic intensity, these are four songs that will get under your skin.
Stream StoryTeller’s In Passing EP on your preferred platform:
Spotify / Apple Music
Follow StoryTeller on Instagram
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