Oregon-based singer/songwriter Rich Swanger showcases a quaint yet insightful folk appeal on new single “Awfully Good,” representing the artist’s first solo effort in a decade — following releases with full bands. The track includes a few guest appearances; in addition to Billy Johnson on electric guitar, Swanger also enlisted the help of his daughter, who adds vocal harmonies. Solemn acoustics, twangy guitars, and slight organs pair with a comforting, introspective vocal presence for a resonating showing from Swanger.
Lyrical references seemingly reference a driving force for comfort and safety in life; particularly in building one’s home “on a solid rock.” “Hold your breath and hope it’s there to stay,” Swanger sings, then lamenting how a home built on unstable foundations can result in personal tumult. The acknowledgements of life’s important virtues, like home and family, are conveyed in a spoken-word sentiment that takes influence from artists like Kris Kristofferson and Johnny Cash; the latter is particularly evident in the “debris of my former home,” segment, alongside thunderstorm effects crafted by items around Swanger’s house. “Awfully Good” is a moving folk success from Rich Swanger.
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The track is also featured in the genre-based, best-of Spotify compilation Emerging Indie Folk.
We discovered this release via MusoSoup, as part of the artist’s promotional campaign.
