Kevin Geyer of The Story So Far to release debut EP – collaboration review

Evie-

Kevin Geyer of The Story So Far is set to release his debut EP for his solo project, Same Side, on 29th May.  With the release just around the corner, here’s what we had to say about Geyer’s self-titled EP.  

First of all, there’s certainly a departure from the sound of The Story So Far and Geyer’s other project, Elder Brother.  Geyer has created something that’s personal to him, it’s minimalistic yet atmospheric – offering a multitude of depth.   

From start to finish, the melodies could be likened to what it might feel like to float on a cloud, the flow of Same Side is dreamy and chilled.  This is definitely an EP to listen to when you’re watching the sun go down!  Although the EP brings feelings of melancholy, it doesn’t make you feel sad – Geyer’s vocals are soothing over-optimistic melodies.  In parts of the self-titled EP, especially in “Stuck In A Hole”, Geyer’s voice feels reminiscent of John Mayer.    

Talking about Same Side, Geyer said, “These songs came together a few years ago as I was going through some changes in my personal situation,” Kevin explains. “I’d have an instrumental idea that I’d sit on for a while until melodies sort of just bubbled up on their own. There were some feelings I had been holding onto subconsciously.” 

Same Side is carried by the meandering of guitars throughout, with subtle drums that don’t overpower the intricacy of the songs.  Paired with ethereal vocals, this EP truly transports you somewhere else – highly recommend it be listened to through headphones to really feel the full extent of the atmosphere it creates. 

The EP encompasses relatable themes of loss and reflection, but executes it in such a unique way – Geyer creates his own identity with Same Side.  “The Way it Seems,” “Fall Back in Again,” and “Same Side”, collectively approach the breakdown of a relationship, as well as the on and off again element that eventually leads to an official end.  “Stuck In A Hole” reflects on the consequences of bad choices and shows empathy for those who struggle with addiction – “I can see myself in some of my friends’ struggles.”  

Same Side feels contemplative, with raw lyrics, it’s a musical diary for Geyer and a platform to discover another side of his creativity.  Talking about the soft alt-rock side of his musical portfolio, Geyer said, “I’ve always gravitated toward the mellower stuff – as I’ve gotten a little bit older and my musical tastes have expanded, this is what comes out naturally for me. I love what we do in The Story So Far and how it’s evolved. This is another outlet, a chance to explore a different side of me.” 

Geyer’s Same Side is refreshing and is being released at a perfect time when a lot of the world is feeling reflective.

Nicole-

From The Story So Far to Elder Brother, Kevin Geyer now steps into his own with Same Side. This EP focuses on themes of letting go, while having a sense of melodic optimism, driving the listeners to a euphoric place as they venture through each song. With the intent of approaching his mellow side, Geyer hopes to use Same Side as a secondary outlet and explore a different side of himself.

Each of these songs deals with a certain time in Geyer’s life, and different situations he had gone through. He shows empathy through the songs for anyone who may be, or have struggled with similar situations. Though the EP is comprised of five songs, three of them create a sort of continuous story. “The Way it Seems”, “Fall Back in Again” and “Same Side”, all surround a relationship that is falling apart, an on-again/off-again flame that fully burns out. “Stuck in a Hole”, reveals a mass amount of empathy for anyone who struggles with addiction. These songs all come together to create a beautiful, and reflective, story.

His use of instruments is what drives this EP. He creates a sort of dream, that while heavier subjects may be talked about, you have this uplifting feeling. A feeling of moving forward to a place of content and relaxation. Listen for yourself, and allow yourself to enter this dreamy state.

Same Side is out on Friday 29th May via Pure Noise Records – in the meantime, you can listen to “Stuck In A Hole” here and “The Way It Seems” below: 

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