Combining classic rock elements with synth-instrumental influences is Garland Kelley’s “Give It All Away”, an expressive and reflective call to action tune about severing our dependence on our possessions.
Coming from Nashville, Kelley has been exposed to a number of perspectives and genres of music and certainly knows how to get his message across while giving listeners something not often heard.
Reminiscent of Youtube sensation The Ghost Club with similarities to their most popular song to date “Same Graves” which also discusses a reliance on status symbols, “Give It All Away” asks us to question our reliance on material objects in a time where genuine human connection is more necessary than ever.
These important messages are something Kelley has tethered to his music saying, “My music is message-driven, often focusing on existential issues such as mortality and materialism.”
Lyrics like, “We cling to possessions like they’re gonna make us feel like we’re good enough” and a repetitive chorus “Can’t take it when you die so give it all away.” reminds us that materialism can be an inhibitor just as much as it can feel like a freedom.
Kelley has also stated that he’s an “avid outdoorsman and adventurer” and this is certainly seen in the singer as well as heard in his music.
All of Kelley’s cover art for each of his tracks feature a scenic background and his profile picture on Soundcloud sees him bare-chested, enveloped in leaves and dirt, almost relinquishing himself to the immeasurable power of nature.
During certain brevities in “Give It All Away”, specifically in the chorus we can hear a distant whistling, almost like a bird’s call, further evoking the presence of nature and the purity it can offer humans in contrast to temporary satisfaction from objects.
The chorus is softer and more down-tempo compared to the vibrant, fast-paced synth electric guitar in the verses, perhaps to help our vocalist appear more considerate to audiences and to more clearly executive his message.
While some thought-provoking messages can get lost in an array of thrashing instruments in other songs, “Give It All Away” gently and thoughtfully balances its tempo to allow listeners to rock out while hearing the relevant lessons that lie beneath.
