B-Side Guys

Paper Citizen’s “American Song” unfurls its sonic flag this July 4th, offering a nuanced perspective on the American musical landscape. Claire Gohst, the Singaporean expatriate behind Paper Citizen, has crafted an indie rock anthem that serves as both a heartfelt tribute to American music and a reflection on her journey as an artist in a new world.

Gohst describes “American Song” as her “ode to how much I love and cherish American music,” infused with a nostalgic tinge for the evolving live music scene over the past decade. This sentiment rings particularly poignant on Independence Day, as the track invites listeners to consider the cultural contributions that have shaped the American identity beyond its political borders.

Musically, “American Song” is a testament to Gohst’s evolution from classical violinist in Singapore to indie rock innovator in Boston. The track likely showcases Paper Citizen’s signature blend of crisp vocals, lyrical intimacy, spacious guitars, and organic rhythms. This sonic palette creates a landscape that’s simultaneously familiar and fresh, nodding to influences like Paramore and Metric while carving out its own distinct territory in the indie rock scene.

The song’s themes resonate deeply with Gohst’s personal history. Having been kicked out of her home at 17 after coming out as gay, her journey from Singapore to Boston, from classical training to indie rock rebellion, infuses “American Song” with layers of meaning. It’s a track that embodies the essence of American independence – the freedom to reinvent oneself, to challenge norms, and to find one’s voice in a new context.

As fireworks illuminate skies across the nation, Paper Citizen’s “American Song” offers a thoughtful counterpoint to traditional Fourth of July fanfare. It’s a reminder that America’s greatest strength lies in its diversity and its ability to inspire and transform those who come to its shores. Gohst’s unique perspective as an immigrant artist allows her to celebrate American music while also questioning and redefining what it means to be an American musician. In doing so, she creates a track that’s as complex and multifaceted as the American experience itself, making “American Song” a fitting soundtrack for a holiday that’s as much about reflection as it is about celebration.