Drawing us in with an intricate and dimensional electric guitar performance with bold drums, percussion and a cerebral bassline, Sean Lippin opens Fish Tank with the situational prose, “In my dreams, I’m swimming free, beneath the waves, splashing in the ocean far away…”.
The opus expands with poetic prowess, dynamic riffs and a metaphorical message of escapism and freedom. We are in awe of the out of this world guitar solo and the double entendre of the overarching sentiment of liberation which has a zeitgeist element reflecting the torture that much ocean life has to suffer at the hands of humanity.
Fish Tank is an arresting exploration of the delicate balance between confinement and freedom, wrapped in a soundscape that draws from the artist’s rich, eclectic influences. Born and raised in the lower Hudson Valley, Lippin channels his environment and experiences into a sonic journey that feels both deeply personal and universally relatable.
Lippin’s voice, tinged with both urgency and introspection, delivers his story with a sincerity that resonates. His musical style has drawn comparisons to iconic artists such as Tom Petty, Phish, and the Dave Matthews Band, but Fish Tank also showcases the influence of indie rock and folk elements reminiscent of Neutral Milk Hotel and Vampire Weekend. The result is a track that feels both timeless and timely, capturing the essence of Lippin’s artistic identity while also speaking to broader, contemporary concerns.
The song’s inspiration, drawn from a moment of observation in Denver, Colorado, adds another layer to its narrative. Lippin’s experience of watching people navigate their own “little worlds” within the cityscape reflects a universal struggle with isolation and the search for meaning. This sentiment is encapsulated in the powerful chorus, where Lippin declares, “I will find my way out of this tank,” offering us all a message of hope and resilience.
Produced with Matt Graff at The Koop Studio, Fish Tank is a testament to Lippin’s ability to blend folk rock, indie rock, and pop rock into a cohesive and compelling sound. The production highlights the dynamic range of Lippin’s musicianship while allowing the song’s lyrical message to shine through.
Ultimately, Fish Tank is an anthem for those of us feeling trapped in our circumstances, urging us to break free and dive into the unknown with courage and determination. It not only cements Sean Lippin‘s place in the contemporary music landscape but also serves as a powerful reminder of music’s ability to inspire and transform.
We have added Fish Tank to our New Music Spotlight playlist, and our new TIMELESS playlist, whilst we continue to stream Sean Lippin‘s wider discography, including Run Away, and Hazy Day!