B-Side Guys

“Artifacts of Water” from Jesse Blake Rundle’s album of the same name is a mesmerizing journey into the depths of folk music, tinged with introspective lyrics and a hauntingly beautiful melody. Rundle, a Boise-based artist, draws from a rich tapestry of life experiences – from personal transformation to rediscovery of musical passion – to create a song that resonates with a profound sense of contemplation and introspection. His background in music, coupled with a period of hibernation due to an injury, lends a unique perspective to his songwriting, one that is deeply reflective and emotionally resonant.

The song begins with a serene description of nature, “this is snow / this is midwinter when rain begins as ice,” setting the stage for a narrative that is both literal and metaphorical. Rundle’s lyrics, “sliding off the tree / down the muddy mountain,” paint vivid images of the natural world, while also alluding to the passage of time and the cyclical nature of life. The music, with its folk roots and subtle hints of electronic elements, complements the lyrics to create a soundscape that is both comforting and thought-provoking. Rundle’s vocal delivery, gentle yet powerful, carries the weight of the song’s thematic elements, inviting listeners into his world of introspection and renewal.

“Artifacts of Water” stands out for its poetic exploration of time and memory, the lyrics “this is the leftover of last year / and our year, and your year” encapsulating the continuous interplay between past and present. Rundle’s artistry shines in his ability to connect personal narratives with universal themes, crafting a musical journey that is both intimate and relatable. The track is a reflection of Rundle’s artistic evolution, a journey marked by resilience, introspection, and a profound connection to the art of storytelling through music.