Fall is a season of change, not just for the leaves, but also for people. It’s a time of adjusting to the struggles of a new semester and balancing the different factors of one’s life. In some cases, the changing season can correspond with a relationship, either a romantic one or a friendship, coming to an end. When this happens, it’s normal to have conflicting feelings and also feel alone. These feelings are tackled head-on in Ruby Leftstep’s new single “The Comedown,” which was released on Friday, Oct. 18 as something those who have recently lost someone important can relate to.
The lyrics talk about the singer’s feelings after what presumably is a breakup but could also be the end of a close friendship. The chorus line of “It’s been so long, I’ve been on the comedown, a piece of my heart is getting me to wait,” shows someone who’s reluctant to put themselves out there to the world after moving on from this person. We don’t actually know how long it’s been, so even a short time could feel like an eternity with this person’s departure.
The singer and the subject were likely very close, as shown in the line: “Where I’ve lost a friend, I’ve lost a life,” showing that a piece of the singer has gone with this person. However, our subject doesn’t completely wallow in longing for this person and shows at some points that he has moved on.
The line, “Like you’ve always said you’ve made your bed, now you’re sleeping alone” is a forceful declaration that this person must live with their decision to leave, just like he has now. The conflicting messaging perfectly represents how complicated and scattershot one’s thoughts can be after the end of a relationship or friendship.
Now, it would stand to reason that a song with such deep meaning would be a slower ballad, right? Not in this case. The reflective lyrics are juxtaposed with the bright, guitar-driven alternative rock sound that Ruby Leftstep has become known for, an approach similar to Bruce Springsteen’s “Dancing in the Dark.” The band wastes no time getting it rolling, with a short rhythm guitar riff leading right into the verse. Musically, it’s relatively simple: The chord changes aren’t anything fancy, there’s no big guitar solo and even the drum fills are kept to a minimum.
But it all comes together in a warm wall of sound that hugs the listener through their speaker, giving them some comfort in whatever they may be struggling with. The band also makes great use of dynamics, effortlessly flowing between quiet and loud sections with perfectly timed buildups.
It’s also worth noting the remarkably pristine production on the track. No one part is overpowered over the other and each aspect of the song can be clearly heard. In particular, the drums are mixed beautifully, featuring crisp cymbals and snare and bass drums that have just enough boom to keep the song moving.
Ruby Leftstep added another great track to their repertoire with “The Comedown,” a song that’s almost certain to be a live staple at their shows. Its contemplative lyrics make it relatable for anyone who’s recently gone through a breakup or said goodbye to a friend, and its bright and energetic sounds make it the perfect track to get through one’s problems one dance at a time.
Rating: 5/5 Leftsteps