David Ross, the multi-instrumentalist and mastermind behind Retrosaint, is back with a new single that signals a fresh direction for the indie-pop project. With its emotive lyrics and subtle Americana influences, *”False Start”* is poised to make waves when it drops on August 27th, 2024. This track, like much of Ross’s work, is personal, heartfelt, and infused with Nashville’s musical spirit.
The Journey to Retrosaint
Retrosaint began in 2020, but David Ross’s musical journey stretches back much further. After studying music business at Belmont University, Ross immersed himself in Nashville’s thriving scene, playing drums, keyboards, and vocals for various acts. He even appeared on the pilot of American Supergroup, receiving praise from celebrity judge Jennifer Nettles for his performance of Squeeze’s “Tempted”. This moment set the stage for what was to come, leading to a serendipitous introduction to Ken Coomer (Wilco), who would later produce Retrosaint’s debut single “Love Tremors.”
“Love Tremors” was described as ‘The War on Drugs fronted by Billie Joe Armstrong’ – it’s a testament to Ross’s versatility as a musician.
The Heart of Nashville in ‘False Start’
Produced in collaboration with longtime musical partner Jonny Lutz, “False Start” is Ross’s latest release, offering an Americana twist that sets it apart from previous work. The track was recorded in Ross’s home studio in Nashville and features contributions from close friends, including Frances Takemoto on fiddle-style violin, adding a rustic, heartfelt layer to the sound.
The lyrics of “False Start” reflect a deeply personal journey. The song explores the emotional aftermath of a breakup while Ross was simultaneously watching another loved one’s marriage unravel. Despite its title, “False Start” isn’t about failure—it’s about realizing that sometimes, what feels like an ending is just the beginning of something new.
“Sometimes we think we’ve reached some big milestone in life when in fact, the journey hasn’t even started yet,”* Ross explains. *“That’s what ‘False Start’ is about.”
An Intimate, DIY Approach
Unlike previous releases, Ross chose to take a more hands-on approach to “False Start”, recording much of the track himself in his home studio. The project, years in the making, showcases Ross’s growth not just as a songwriter but as a producer. The DIY approach lends the track an authentic feel that matches its personal subject matter.
“Besides the mastering, the only people involved in creating this song were close friends of mine,” Ross shares. *“I’m super proud of this fact.”
“False Start” blends the rock and pop influences fans have come to love with new Americana elements, creating a track that feels both polished and raw. For Ross, the song is a personal milestone, marking the next chapter in his evolving sound as Retrosaint. Fans should expect this track to resonate deeply, expanding his reach beyond the indie scene.
Listen to Retrosaint’s ‘False Start’ here:
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Nadia Elkharadly
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