NEW MUSIC: Grey Dugan Releases Single “By My Side”
SEPTEMBER 15, 2023 | BY ALICIA URREA
Los Angeles-based musician Grey Dugan steps right back into the sphere of indie music with a brand new track titled “By My Side,” just a few months after the release of his second EP, Furious Masters. Though it’s been a stretch of time since we’ve last heard Dugan’s artistry, this song is a boasting reminder of just how creative and multifaceted he can be with his music.
The intro of the track proposes Dugan’s infamous heavily distorted guitar, a quintessential familiarity, yet flawless nonetheless. It’s a signature preparation for the surge of production that follows as the vocals start in the verse, introducing a sensational electric bass line and a continual kick-drum. There’s a moment where the bass shies away, leaving the percussion alone with Dugan’s voice, applying depth to this segment of the song before we are motioned to the chorus. It’s an impeccable foundation for the remainder of the song, and an exemplary introduction to the genre of indie alt-rock.
Dugan’s vocals in this track are also very interesting. They’re captivating alongside the production: there’s a dash of distortion, as well as a bit of delay and reverb. His words are sonically saturated and articulate, especially in the chorus when all of the instruments join in. We recognize the bass guitar and percussion, but the most prominent instrument is the iconic guitar, a staple portion of any indie tune. The same riff that was played in the beginning is present during the post-chorus, with faint major chords being strummed in the background. The distortion and delay is still present, making it sound like the guitar is being played from far away. As the guitar solo comes to an end, a magnetic synth progression pulls us toward the second verse.
The rhythmic duo of the drums and bass follow while Dugan continues his storytelling. The track includes some longing lyricism, the repeated mantra being "I can’t take another night if you aren’t by my side.” It’s a juxtaposition to the exuberant music that surrounds these words, an archetypal “dance while you cry” song. Dugan portrays his pine for this person through his aching vocals and devoted lyrics. Whether this person is a lover or a friend, the emotion is unmistakable.
My first impression subsequent to my first listen was that I was listening to an aural blend of Del Water Gap, Arctic Monkeys, and Wallows. As a fan of alternative rock and synth-pop music, I feel as though this song was right up my alley, and it’s definitely a contender to be one of my favorite new releases of the month. The song was a whirlpool of several qualities that show off the talent of Dugan, with pristine dynamics that allowed us to fully process the sonic lows and highs of the track. It’s truly insane that the instrumentation, songwriting, and production were all at the mercy of the capabilities of Dugan, and it only elevates my excitement for what’s to come from the musician in the near future.