With their third album, The Right Now have extended the scope of the songwriting, moving into political topics and social themes. On Starlight, which will be released this Friday, February 24 the group also builds on its signature soul-revivalist sound, draw in aspects of disco and pop as well. Today we premiere the “Everything IS Broken from the forthcoming record (which is now available for pre-order).

Band leader Brendan O’Connell tells Relix, “I’m an avid reader of periodicals, and I especially long-form journalism. Give me Harper’s, New York Review of Books, or The Economist and I’m a happy camper. A New Yorker article from 2012 truly moved me. It described the journey of an idealist college student that jumped into politics with lofty ideals of public service and a duty to help others. He ended up losing faith in the system and began a wildly successful lobbying firm. It wasn’t until the financial crisis hit in 2008 that he realized the emptiness of his success–not to mention the negative effects his lobbying efforts (representing oil, gas, big banks and mortgage companies) had on average Americans. His greed had blinded him, but he was searching for ways to redeem himself and make amends.

“I wanted to write a song that related a story of riches, disillusionment, and possible redemption. Even though we are years past the financial crisis, I think the message still applies today. Many of us strive and strive to succeed and make money without really thinking about if it will make us happy (or how our actions could indirectly hurt others).

“The musical vibe of ‘Everything Is Broken’ came together quickly. We wanted a ‘looped’ drum part (the same measure or two played over and over again) and a repetitive bass line to give the song a heavy, psychedelic mood. The vocal chant (echoed by the fuzzed out guitar) lends an even more epic element to the tune. My favorite moment comes after the horns and drums break things down. After several minutes of the same chord changes, we finally alter the chords and create even more tension–our drummer Lucas Gillan had that great idea. Everything comes together in a cacophonous, raging melee at the end. Needless to say, this song is a blast to play live. Even though the song is called ‘Everything Is Broken,’ I hope this song comes across as more of a cautionary tale than a depressing tune. Just because so much in our society seems broken at the moment doesn’t mean that we can’t fix it. At least that’s my hope.”

The group’s upcoming tour dates appear below the stream.

The Right Now Tour Dates

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