Fans of Arcade Fire will be excited to hear the debut solo album from the band’s
instrumentalist, Will Butler.
The album, entitled Policy, was recorded in one week in Jimi Hendrix’s old living room, according to a press release.
The lead single “Take My Side,” which is slightly reminiscent of Jet’s “Are You Gonna Be My Girl,” is infused with a rock semblance that stays consistent throughout the rest of the album.
“Anna” has an ‘80s electro-pop vibe. Butler addresses a woman who is concerned about money and trusting people. This track is bound to get stuck in listeners’ heads all day and is the highlight of the album.
Featuring a soft piano and drums, “Finish What I Started” is a slower, introspective ballad. This track explores the concept of identity and evokes a sense of anguish over regretful decisions.
“Son of God” is an upbeat, lighthearted track about the effectiveness of religion in addressing everyday life problems. “Something’s Coming” is composed of distorted guitar progressions and is about the fear that comes from an unknown situation.
A more radio-friendly track, “What I Want,” contains conversational lyrics to a romantic interest. Butler laments about his inability to pay attention to details and sings about the promises of love in a humorous tone.
“Sing to Me” begins with the accompaniment of a piano and lyrics that elicit a sense of tiredness, as well as an avoidance in addressing the thoughts that plague his mind.
The final track, “Witness,” sounds like a song that would be featured on an ‘80s soundtrack and wraps up the style that is evident throughout the album.
Butler combines brilliant lyrical content with rock music on his first solo project that will be released March 10 through Merge Records.
