Artist: POSTDATA
Album: Run Wild
Release Date: September 22, 2023
Genre: Singer-Songwriter
Run Wild is the soul-stirring creation of Paul Murphy’s solo music project, POSTDATA, released through Paper Bag Records. This ten-song album embarks on a profound musical journey, guiding listeners through a spectrum of emotions and themes.
The album opens with the previous single, “Mine The Sea,” which initiates the voyage with an upbeat melody and poignant reflections on longing and uncertainty. “Mine the sea, Swim the deep, Endlessly” encapsulates the search for meaning.
Paul shares,
“”Mine The Sea” is the idea of digging deeper into yourself to find who you are and where you want to go. It’s about the search…but also about letting go of habitual ways and allowing yourself to be being open to possibility.”
Moving on to the title track, “Run Wild,” which delves into love, trust, and self-discovery. It opens vulnerably, portraying the risk of opening one’s heart. “Run wild, let your dreams run wild” empowers individuals to wholeheartedly pursue their aspirations.
Originally a lullaby for his son, “Look To The Stars” is a dreamy, introspective track that explores themes of seeking meaning and identity, underscored by the recurring phrase “Look to the stars.” Its poetic lyrics inspire wonder and contemplation, prompting listeners to reflect on life’s mysteries, the enchantment of the night sky, and the significant connections that shape our paths.
Paul shares,
“The melody and chorus lyrics for this song started as a lullaby for my son. I still sing for him a lot but there were times where it was like 30 minutes of singing and he wouldn’t be sleeping… you sing the same songs a lot but there are points where that’s just boring or there’s just a nice feeling in the room and you just venture into writing mode, I guess.“
“Holy Hollow” envelops listeners with its mysterious beat, featuring hypnotic lyrics that convey a profound sense of surrender and a longing for an enchanting experience. The lines “I will climb the highest halls, To the brink over the top” signify an eagerness to venture into uncharted territories.
Midway through the album, “Dead Man” strikes a captivating balance between emotional depth and a catchy rhythm. The repeated lines, “I know I love you now, I always did, I don’t know why, I don’t know how,” express a profound realization of a longstanding love that may have gone unnoticed or unspoken. The song’s infectious and upbeat tempo contrasts beautifully with the introspective lyrics, creating a dynamic and emotionally resonant piece.
“Circular Ruins” explores heartbreak, deception, and resilience. The lyrics vividly describe the emotional wounds inflicted by the partner’s actions, using the metaphor of being cut by the “full moon of his love.” The repeated question, “What’s it to you now?” echoes a desire for closure and strength found in adversity.
The rock-inspired track “Moons,” delves into identity and self-discovery. The repeated phrase, “Tell me who I am,” mirrors the quest for self-identity. As the song progresses, it embraces the idea of self-renewal and reanimation, implying that one can become their true self again despite the challenges and transformations they’ve undergone. The repetition of “Becoming yourself again, Reanimating” champions personal growth and rediscovery.
In “Twigs Underfoot,” unravels the complexities of love and vulnerability. The lyrics express the hesitancy and longing of unspoken feelings: “You’re everything I ever wanted, but couldn’t bring myself to bring up.” As the song unfolds, the recurring plea “Let me feel your light, love” intensifies, becoming a heartfelt request to be embraced in the beloved’s inner world and to bask in their radiance.
Released as a single, “Try” emerges as an empowering anthem of resilience and determination. The repetitive “Try, Try” is a rallying cry to persist in one’s journey despite challenges. The lines, “To the end of the road, I would have never believed it, Past everything that you think you’re owed, I know nothing’s ever given,” underscore the idea that success often requires hard work and determination, not entitlement. With its catchy tune and motivational verses, “Try” is a feel-good masterpiece that inspires a positive outlook on conquering challenges.
Paul shares,
“I think (“Try”) is about following your passion wherever it leads. There’s a sense of humour I think to it and a sense of lightness and darkness and desperation too. Essentially they are the same lyrics in verse 1 and 2 with a slight twist in perspective or that’s what I’m trying to arrive at.”
Closing the album, “Raven” explores themes of forgiveness, redemption, and self-reflection. The opening lines, “Half-drunk coffee in my hand, raven on my back, I’ll never truly be forgiven in my own heart,” set a contemplative tone, suggesting a sense of guilt or remorse that lingers within. The song masterfully captures the concept of transformation, as seen in “This is the calm before the storm before the calm,” signifying inner change, while the mention of “fake it to make it” underscores the resilience required to overcome challenges. Ultimately, the track leaves listeners with a hopeful message: despite past wrongs and inner turmoil, forgiveness and personal growth are attainable.
Overall, Run Wild is an enthralling and introspective journey. Each song contributes to a rich tapestry of emotions, exploring love, resilience, self-discovery, and the intricacies of the human experience. This album offers an immersive and well-rounded listening adventure.