Drawing us in with bold, yet textured drums and a magnetic, astral melody with an intricate guitar and saxophone soundscape, Delaware Tea Company open Army of One with dimensionality and instrumental mastery. Needless to say, we are in awe.
The opus expands with a charismatic vocal and philosophical depth as frontman Austin Sharpe sings, “I’m not a soldier, I march to my own beat, but if I was bolder, I would take to the streets…”. We connect with the psychedelic guitar work, and the cohesive and emotionally astute tapestry of sound and intentional depth that manifests.
The lyrics convey a message of personal growth, resilience, and the desire to make a positive impact despite acknowledging one’s imperfections. They highlight the narrator’s independent spirit and self-awareness. They recognize their lack of conventional heroism, but still yearn to rally others and advocate for a better world. This aspiration to gather people to their cause reflects an inner drive to contribute to societal change, driven by a sense of urgency and purpose.
The second part of the lyrics shifts to self-reflection and the acknowledgment of personal flaws. Austin admits his humanity with “I’m no angel / I’ve made my mistakes,” emphasizing a commitment to personal development and learning. The uncertainty expressed in “I don’t know if I’m climbing those stairs / At the end of the day who really cares” underscores the existential questioning of life’s purpose and the impact of one’s actions. However, despite this uncertainty, the determination to make the most of their life remains strong, encapsulating a resolve to persist in their efforts to improve both themselves and the world around them.
Speaking on the release, the band confess, “Army Of One tells a story of embarking on a journey of self-discovery to inspire change in your life and the lives of those around you. It takes a village to move mountains, but Army Of One talks about how real change starts with self reflection and improvement.”
Delaware Tea Company cite Stevie Wonder, Foo Fighters, Khruangbin, Steely Dan, Eagles, and Led Zeppelin as sonic influences, which we can feel come through on Army of One, although there is no doubt that the band are creating a sound of their own. The band features Austin Sharpe as the lead singer, rhythm guitarist, and saxophonist, Nate Young on bass, Sergio Romero on lead guitar, and Dajon Wiseman on drums. The band will be performing in Boston at Middle East on July 13th, and opening for Kipani as local support on their “Dear Diary, I’m Fine” tour at The Garage in Boyds, Maryland on July 21.
We love what Delaware Tea Company stand for and create, and have added Army of One to our New Music Spotlight playlist, as well as our new TIMELESS and TRIPPY playlists, whilst we continue to listen to the band’s debut single, Empty, and anticipate future releases!