Charleston Americana Rockers The Artisanals Release Spirited New Single ‘Way Up’

The desert provokes a fascinating connotation with freedom. Embracing this wild spirit of the vast deserts of the west are The Artisanals, who are preaching a new gospel of rock n’ roll with their newest single “Way Up.”

The South Carolina-based band, led by Johnny Delaware, conveys messages of new beginnings and rediscovering the truths of ourselves throughout this uplifting new song. Billboard has described The Artisanals’ music as “a blend of Americana charm and southern rock swagger.” The band has clear influences from blues, rock, and country that seamlessly come together as one sound in their music.

This Americana band has brought their sound to venues across the U.S. and Europe, sharing the stage with acts such as Car Seat Headrest, Band of Horses, Shovels and Rope, Dylan Leblanc, and Roadkill Ghost Choir.

Drew Vandenburg, the producer of this project, also had a part in their previous single, “Violet Light“. This song has a similar mood to “Way Up” but incorporates different voices and instrumental solos. It is also one of the first tracks from their upcoming record, expected to be out in late 2021.

“Way Up” sets a curious, suspenseful scene from the get-go, hooking listeners’ attention immediately. From the steady opening percussion to the unique guitar solo, the song gradually layers more artistic elements and unique instruments, and is what The Artisanals seem to do best. The group does an expert job of allowing the instruments, voices, and harmonies to create peaceful images as if you are there in the studio with them. One of the band members said of the backstory, “Way Up was inspired by the book Women Who Run With Wolves displaying our human integrity and purpose to metaphorically resurrect ourselves to further our lives.”

The five member-band utilizes visual and artistic imagery of a desert on the cover of the single to complement the sound and message of the song. Vivid imagery within the lyrics such as “down beneath that sand… I was never seen, I was living in a storm,” delivers a sad emotion, but it inspires listeners to leave the “storms” in their lives behind in search of something more. Towards the end of the song is a twist within the music, which adds pickups and distinct layers, helping it end with a radiant, full sound. 

From their significant messages within their lyrics, to their expressive sound, The Artisanals deliver in a most authentic way where listeners can feel an instant connection.