Ben Arsenault – Turning Back (2022)
From Sinusoidal Music and Tinnitist to York Calling, Permanent Rain Press and Canadian Beats, singer-songwriter Ben Arsenault is making a splash on an international scale. Most well-known as the guitarist and vocalist of the alt-country/jam band Real Ponchos, Arsenault has a following; however, it is his solo project that we are interested in and listening to. Pursuing a slower, more traditional country music style, his sound is heartfelt and tender with a nostalgic flair. The latest addition to his discography is the single ‘Turning Back’.
Following his debut track ‘Hold On To You’, ‘Turning Back’ is a toe-tapping country tune combining pounding drums, guitars, harmonica, fiddle and Arsenault’s obscure vocals. Weary, worn and wistful, a melancholic tinge can be heard in the melody; however, a sense of hopefulness is woven into the intriguing tune. Interestingly enough, while the song has a complexity to the arrangement with guitars, drums, fiddles and harmonicas, there is a sense of simplicity underlying the overall track. What I mean is, the intricacy is evident and makes the song kaleidoscopic, but a raw honesty exists in the melody that makes it one united whole.
Considering its style and flair, the melody of ‘Turning Back’ can hold its own; however, it is the lyricism that illustrates Arsenault’s true depth. Inspired by a walk in the woods with his wife, the song touches on connection, commitment, and responsibility and “the imagery in the song follows that walk…” His aim is to connect with listeners, and in this sophomore single, Arsenault brings a sense of whimsy, innocence and fragility to the audience.
‘Turning Back’ is the second single from Arsenault’s self-titled debut album (set for release on December 2nd, 2022). Sincere, sentimental and brutally honest, Ben Arsenault sends shivers down your spine with this song – I wonder what else he has in store.
For more from Ben Arsenault check out his official website, Instagram and Spotify.
This artist was discovered via Musosoup #sustainablecurator
