Tyler Ballgame, Madison Cunningham, and others appear on Johanna Samuels’ latest album, Sorry Kid
Sorry Kid, the latest album from the artist, is a continuation of their previous works such as Excelsior and Bystander. The track “Circles” is the third teaser from the album, following the release of “White Limousine” and “Two People, the Moon.” In this song, Tyler Ballgame lends their vocals as Samuels delves into exploring patterns within the human experience.
Reflecting on the inspiration behind “Circles,” Samuels shares that the song was penned during their time living in New York City at the age of 20. Influenced by Elliott Smith’s music, as well as symbols like the infinity sign and Schoolhouse Rock’s Figure 8, the artist found a sense of profundity in their observations. They pondered the coexistence of intense emotions and emotional numbing, the ability to create beauty while also being capable of violence and conflict. Despite these contradictions, Samuels hopes for an underlying kindness and goodness to prevail, believing that love and honesty will ultimately triumph.
Revisiting the song after years have passed, Samuels recognizes the underlying message of “Circles” – the idea that each individual is a universe of experiences and can only absorb a certain amount of truth at a time. The cyclical nature of personal growth and learning is likened to the axis of a figure 8, repeating to allow for reflection and development. It is a process that requires time and a willingness to embrace openness and vulnerability.
Recorded analogically and helmed by producer Jonathan Rado, Sorry Kid features contributions from artists like Courtney Marie Andrews and Erin Rae. Serving as a reflection on the artist’s past, the album symbolically closes a chapter, encapsulating songs written over the span of two decades.
Contemplating the evolution that has taken place since crafting these songs, Samuels views the release of Sorry Kid as a cathartic conclusion to a significant phase in their life. The album, which began as a series of questions, now offers resolutions rather than definitive answers.
Sorry Kid showcases a diverse tracklist, including songs like “White Limousine” featuring Courtney Marie Andrews, “Rare (The Runner Song)” with Madison Cunningham, and “Blue vs. Pinkerton.” Each track weaves a unique narrative, adding to the cohesive musical tapestry of the album. Other notable songs on the tracklist include “Full Story,” “Bats,” “The Kind One,” “Grade 11 (Sorry Kid),” “Do What I Can,” and “Indelible Within Her.”
Overall, Sorry Kid encapsulates a poignant reflection on personal growth, emotional depth, and the cyclical nature of human experience. Through its introspective lyrics and mesmerizing melodies, the album invites listeners to contemplate their own journeys of self-discovery and evolution.