Milk St. debuts “Toyota Corolla” from album “Good Grief”, road-tested in over 120 locations
Milk St. creating their album “Good Grief” was a process that involved a significant amount of road-testing and live experimentation. In 2024, the band embarked on a journey of over 120 shows, during which songs like “Just So,” “Toyota Corolla,” “Milk and Honey,” “Boy Dinner,” and “Slide Off” underwent constant evolution. At a show in Maryland’s DIY venue, The Garage, the instrumental ending of “Just So” unexpectedly gave birth to the line “Oh Joni, I’m So Sorry”. Similarly, the distinctive section “Getting Freaky Now, Getting Creepy Now” in “Toyota Corolla” emerged in a spontaneous manner.
The evolution of the album continued with the release of singles like “Just So” on May 7 and the title track on August 27, culminating in the full release of “Good Grief” on September 25. The 13 songs on the album were carefully crafted, revised, and kept dynamic through rigorous live testing. Some tracks were honed on stage while others took shape during intimate sessions in living rooms just before embarking on new tours.
Lead singer Jonah shared insights about the organic growth of the album stating, “The whole ending to Just So with ‘Oh Joni, I’m So Sorry,’ came out randomly at a show at a DIY venue called The Garage in Maryland and was originally just an instrumental, noodly guitar part. The ‘Getting Freaky Now, Getting Creepy Now,’ part in Toyota Corolla came out in that sort of same way.” “Toyota Corolla,” a guitar-driven track with saxophone and backing vocals, delves into themes of external influences shaping one’s identity. The irony of being perceived as a luxurious Limousine while identifying more with a humble Toyota Corolla punctuates the essence of the song.
The journey of self-discovery and personal reflection echoed in the lyrics of the album reflects Jonah’s introspective songwriting sessions. Lyrically, “Good Grief” navigates themes of identity crises, societal pressures, and fleeting moments of clarity. Lyrics like “Cover me up with the cool kids in the magazines” which transitioned from “Cool Kids in the local scene” encapsulate the band’s evolution in perception and understanding of local music scenes.
The creation of the album’s accompanying video for “Toyota Corolla” by Matthew Meunier brought the narrative to life. The video features captivating performances by the band members alongside imaginative character portrayals. Each member of the band contributed their unique skills to the production, underscoring their collaborative spirit and dedication to their craft.
Jonah’s journey towards self-assurance and creative freedom is evidenced in the making of “Good Grief”. By letting go of self-imposed comparisons and perfectionism, Jonah embraced a more spontaneous and raw approach to songwriting. The essence of capturing initial lyrical impulses and preserving the authenticity of the creative process emerged as a cornerstone of the album’s development.
The extensive touring in a 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan further solidified the band’s bond and creative synergy. Endless hours on the road fostered a sense of camaraderie and shared experiences that seeped into the fabric of the album’s thematic landscape. The frustrations, joys, and revelations encountered during their nomadic lifestyle found their way into the album’s core, enriching its narrative and emotional depth.
“Good Grief” stands as a testament to Milk St.’s artistic evolution and unwavering dedication to their craft. From live experimentation to intimate collaborations, the album encapsulates a journey of self-discovery, creative freedom, and collective growth.