Track of the Day: William McLaughlin – Better (2025)
During his years at Chichester University, singer-songwriter William McLaughlin not only gained a university education but discovered his passion for music. With a bass guitar in one hand and an eagerness to connect with audiences, the UK-based McLaughlin found himself sharing moving music with audiences. While McLaughlin’s solo project took flight in the past year, his musical journey is not a new one with over a decade of experience in bands. Yet, it is his original individual works that draw our and various international media’s attention. Come with us as we dive headfirst into his single ‘Better’.
Following his 2024 album, Put it on the pile, ‘Better’ is the first single from this talented musician. At first glance, I thought his name might be fitting for a traditional folk artist – how wrong I was. Instead of the Bob Dylan tones I thought would emerge from a man named McLaughlin, his music is a gritty journey through hard rock, alternative rock, grunge, and even a hit of melodic metal. It just shows you shouldn’t assume anything at all.
Dragging listeners back to the 1990s rock scene, ‘Better’ is a symphony of hard-hitting sonic darkness. A bass-heavy composition, the track slithers through crashing drums, soaring guitars, and, well, the pulsating bass, interweaving in a sonic tapestry. Yet, as there is a soothing harmony existing in the single, a melodic distortion places each instrument on its pedestal demanding attention before morphing into the musical symphony.
For me, ‘Better’ could be a perfect addition to the soundtrack for Queen of the Damned, but it is the theme and lyricism that make the track even more dazzling. William McLaughlin explains:
“… the lyrics are based around self-improvement through a sometimes seemingly pointless existence to chase and, through action, achieve some version of perfection and in doing so achieve happiness, whilst not forgetting to laugh.
In addition to the single, William McLaughlin released an official music video for ‘Better’. You can view the video below or on his YouTube channel. Please note that this video uses lighting effects that can trigger migraines and/or seizures in people with photosensitive epilepsy. Viewer discretion is advised.
VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED
Find out more about William McLaughlin on his Instagram, TikTok and Spotify.
This artist was discovered via Musosoup #sustainablecurator
Listen to more alternative rock on The Other Side Reviews Alternative Rock playlist:
