Sailing Through Midlife Transitions: Sunburnt Sky’s ‘The Drift’

In the tumultuous realm of musical creation, embarking on a second album is akin to setting sail on a tempestuous sea. The journey can be long, treacherous, and at times, downright chaotic. But for the visionary American artist and mastermind behind Sunburnt Sky, Mike Seely, crafting the follow-up to his sensational debut album, ‘The Ten Thousand Things’, was a voyage infused with an unparalleled sense of purpose. Brace yourself, for the realm of ‘The Drift’ awaits—a realm fueled by midlife transitions, where inspiration thrives and revelations abound.

Imbued with profound meaning, ‘The Drift’ orbits around a mesmerizing concept: the perils of surrendering to the relentless current of life without intentionality. Mike Seely, a sage adorned in sonic brilliance, implores us to be mindful of this omnipresent force, for it can easily ensnare us, rendering our existence a mere spectator sport. Oh, how many souls find themselves entangled in the web of routine, their lives on autopilot, their subconscious minds pulling the strings.

As Seely delves into the depths of his introspection, he divulges, “This opus encapsulates my journey, within and beyond ‘The Drift.’ It’s an ode to the messy dance of life, embracing both the muck and the radiance, basking in the sunlight, enduring the agony, discovering myself and others, and extracting wisdom from every peak and trough. All this, to elevate the human experience to ethereal heights.”

Prepare to be serenaded by the bewitching ensemble of twelve tracks that comprise ‘The Drift.’ Seely’s musical sorcery finds solace in the beguiling realm of reggae, its infectious melodies winding their way into the very fabric of your being. Yet, this isn’t a solo endeavor. This sophomore offering is blessed with the kaleidoscopic brilliance of many collaborators, each weaving their unique strands into the sonic tapestry. It’s a testament to Seely’s artistic evolution, as he forges his own unmistakable niche within the reggae-rock domain, blending sun-drenched vibrations with the raw authenticity of indie alternative rock.

The album opens with, “Sometimes (Looking for My Place)”, a poignant exploration of self-discovery, the pursuit of personal identity, and the challenges faced along the way. The artist’s introspective lyrics vividly portray the ups and downs of the journey, capturing the essence of youthful exploration and the desire to find meaning and purpose.

This is followed by “Younger Kids” ft. Mikal Herb, which captures the spirit of youth, their aspirations, and their desire to forge their own paths. The song beautifully portrays the cyclical nature of life, the shifting dynamics between generations, and the dreams and ambitions that drive the younger generation.

On “Shore Breaks”, Sunburnt Sky delves into the complexities of vulnerability, offering solace and support to those in need. With its heartfelt message and melodic composition, the song serves as a reminder of the transformative power of love and understanding. “Disrupting The Drift” ft. Reno Powers is an invigorating anthem that encourages listeners to break free from societal constraints and embrace unity and love. The lyrics convey a message of empowerment and liberation, urging individuals to challenge the status quo and find solace in shared experiences.

With its inspiring message and captivating melody, “Green Light” ft. Ras Stan serves as a reminder that opportunities await those who are willing to take the leap and embrace the transformative power of personal growth. “Good Times” serves as a reminder to appreciate the present, create lasting memories, and keep the spirit of joy alive. “I Really Wanna Get to You” ft. Reno Powers is a heartfelt anthem that explores the yearning and determination to connect with someone on a deeper level. The intense desire to overcome obstacles, the willingness to take risks, and the plea for reciprocation and guidance.

Through thought-provoking lyrics, the brass-filled “Sold My Soul for Love” ft. Shadoe invites listeners to reflect on their own choices, question societal expectations, and prioritize personal fulfillment. It serves as a reminder that true happiness often lies in following one’s heart and embracing the transformative power of love. “Tropical Getaway” ft. Meaghan Richardson captures the essence of seeking comfort and rejuvenation through a tropical paradise and the music that accompanies it. The lyrics convey a longing for freedom, and an escape from life’s pressure.

This is followed by the fiery guitar motifs and shimmering synths of “Up up Inside of My Head” and “Today”, which explore the themes of self-reflection, and the importance of seizing the opportunities that each day brings. The album closes with “Sweet Fire”, a vibrant and uplifting song that captures the essence of embracing life’s joyful moments. The lyrics celebrate the carefree nature of summer and the nostalgia-inducing power of music. The song encourages listeners to appreciate the beauty in life’s unpredictability and make the most of each moment.

Born and bred amidst the sun-kissed landscapes of San Diego, Mike Seely’s auditory upbringing boasted the anthems of iconic bands like U2, INXS, and Radiohead. This was followed by the immortal echoes of Bob Marley, and then contemporary titans like Stick Figure, The Movement, and Iya Terra. ‘The Drift’ beckons you, to embark on an odyssey through the ebbs and flows of existence, where midlife transitions intertwine with unbridled creativity.

Sunburnt Sky’s resolute spirit dances with the allure of reggae, its vibrant rhythms merging seamlessly with the infectious vocals. So, immerse yourself in the harmonious waves of the album, surrender to the seductive melodies, and let your soul be illuminated by the lyrical, vocal and musical prowess of Mike Seely – the master architect of Sunburnt Sky’s harmonious haven.