Jewelry - "Go Back"

Brooklyn lo-fi extraordinaire Ryan Laetari has continued to stay active during this weird-ass year, releasing a string of great singles under his own name, including “Sunshine Unlimited,” “I Don’t Need You,” and “String.” The latter two received Song of the Week nods in February and May, respectively, and there’s a good chance that the first would have as well, but it came out before this feature started! In addition to his work under his given name, Laetari recently began releasing music under the moniker Jewelry, a project he describes as having a more “rock-centric” focus. He’s since released some great songs over the last few months, including a very wistful and nostalgic tune called “Go Back.” 

I recently shared on Instagram that I’ve been longing for the somewhat simpler times of a decade ago. Although millennials were entering young adulthood in the middle of a massive recession (sound familiar??), the music of the moment, known to many as chillwave, helped ease my anxieties. “Go Back” nails a similarly relaxed vibe that reminds me of Real Estate’s 2010 EP Reality, Lotus Flower, and the early work of Here We Go Magic. Like those bands, Laetari creates a laid back atmosphere with an inviting, tinging riff and a steady, hypnotic backbeat that’ll set your mind adrift for a little while. Through the lyrics, he expresses a longing for the past, using imagery to paint vivid portraits of his memories with a former significant other. I think we can all relate when Laetari sings, “I want to go back to the way that things were.” Hopefully, we can sooner rather than later.

Stream “Go Back” on your platform of choice. You can also purchase it on Bandcamp.  Keep up with Jewelry by following them on Instagram.