Oklahoma rock collective Mapping The Sky releases debut album Here And Not Here via Creative Entertainment Network/ The Orchard with an accompanying video for the song “Last Bastion”. You can stream it on your favorite platform here: Here And Not Here (orcd.co)
Frontman and Mapping The Sky founder says, “I wrote Last Bastion when Covid19 was going around, it deals a lot with isolation. Also, the premise of the song has a great deal to do with being your own worst enemy. In the video, I’m the person stalking myself. It ties into the lyrics: “I’m the ghost inside my head, and I’m the monster underneath my bed.”
On the album you will find “Get Up Kid” which hinges on a head-nodding electric guitar riff, and a hypnotic drumbeat sets the tempo. “You can drive around and scream along to it, it’s about dealing with adversity and refusing to stay knocked down,” shares Swanson. On its heels, “Just Like Me” fuses punchy guitars to a relentless rhythm. “Oklahoma is considered a ‘flyover state,’ so I tapped into that angst we have,” Swanson says. “The song is essentially saying: As long as you are trying, it’s okay to be whatever you are.’”
“catchy melodies and distorted guitars, powerful, raw, gritty, and unapologetic. He sings with emotion and conviction, and you can feel his passion and his authenticity,” — Folk N Rock
The album’s tracks cover a range of themes, from relationship struggles in “Here And Not Here” to introspective moments in “Fallen Angels.” Swanson’s grunge influences are evident in tracks like “Last Bastion,” showcasing diverse guitar parts and a raw, intense sound.
“Home” and “Fallen Angels” delve into deeper emotional territories, with anthemic hooks and moments of stark existential introspection. Swanson expresses his frustration with the universe in “Fallen Angels,” highlighting the intense emotions that drive the music.
Mapping The Sky aims to provide comfort and connection through their music, drawing from personal experiences to create relatable and infectious rock songs. Swanson hopes that listeners can find solace and connection in the shared experiences reflected in their music.
www.instagram.com/mappingthesky
