I’m Moving to the Moon is the stirring debut album from Sam Sample, an artist based in NYC and originally from Georgia. A melodic blend of country, folk, and rock complement heartfelt themes of introspection — chronicling Sample’s own experiences, living in NYC and working at a Fortune 500 company, following initially being raised in the south. The songwriting artfully speaks to the ups and downs of life, from the invigoration of success to coping with loneliness.
Opening track “What’ve I Got On You” reveals a country-friendly folk appeal with its acoustic guitars and heartfelt fiddle/mandolin infusions. Sample’s vocals move seamlessly into the title-touting questioning, expanding at the one-minute turn into a dreamy, soaring vocal disposition that hooks. The pleasant commencing track then shifts into “31st Floor,” describing lonesome 3AM walks home as frolicking acoustics and sporadic strings weave in. “Is it better in the mountains or the shore?” Sample’s vocals inquire, pondering if locale impacts happiness. I’m Moving to the Moon begins aptly with personal contemplations on one’s place in life, set amidst harmonious country-folk productions.
The retrospective “Western Mass” moves initially with a laid-back folk arsenal, as Sample asks “why’d you let go?” into twangy adornments. Lyrical observations on change continue as the rhythms ease in, into the observational yearning within “TJ,” a lovely folk success with lush harmonica infusions. These serene folk efforts showcase Sample’s more intimate songwriting, and “Nick” ensues with a textured rock haziness — succeeding beautifully in doing so. “Nick, you make me sick,” the vocals commiserate, depicting a titular character who doesn’t take “long to lie.” Scathing, melancholic lyricism combines with an ardent rock sound for one of the album’s standouts.
The second half of I’m Moving to the Moon continues the riveting songwriting. “There are better things in store than you for me,” the perseverant lyrics let out as twangy guitars and gliding fiddle combine on “Better Things,” excelling in its vibrancy. “Rock Song” — as its title suggests — fully embracing an invigorating rock appeal, telling how “the shadows of memories,” is not the ideal place to languish in. “Stubborn Ways” moves back into the introspective folk territory, while “Signal & The Noise” melds twangy guitars within further displays of haunting memories.
Album finale “Moon Man” is an apt closer, lyrically capturing the myriad of emotions throughout — from love and loss, and its ensuing melancholy, to consequential drives to escape. “Maybe I was meant to be a moon man,” Sample emits as gorgeous strings enter. The track captures personal struggle and loss of connection with sincerity, capping off I’m Moving to the Moon with another track that stirs in its enthralling songwriting.
I’m Moving to the Moon releases on October 11th.
