B-Side Guys

Gregory Ackerman’s “Luckier Still” is a deceptively breezy rumination on the human condition, wrapped in a folk-rock package that feels both timeless and contemporary. Produced by Ryan Pollie and mixed by Rilo Kiley’s Pierre de Reeder, the track strikes a delicate balance between lo-fi charm and polished craftsmanship.

From the opening strums, Ackerman’s guitar work evokes the laid-back groove of J.J. Cale, while his vocals carry a hint of Wilco’s Jeff Tweedy at his most introspective. The arrangement builds slowly, adding layers of instrumentation that create a rich tapestry without ever feeling overcrowded.

Lyrically, “Luckier Still” is a masterclass in subtle storytelling. Ackerman juxtaposes the supposed simplicity of machine existence with the complexities of human life. Lines like “I could never be so lucky as to be a machine / And never get to thinking what it’s all gotta mean” capture the existential weight of consciousness with a wry smile.

The recurring character of Danny serves as a foil to the narrator, embodying the human tendency to seek escape through various means. The contrast between Danny’s cigarettes and the narrator’s preference for kerosene paints a vivid picture of different coping mechanisms in the face of life’s challenges.

“Luckier Still” showcases Ackerman’s ability to blend philosophical musings with catchy melodies. The repeated refrain of “Harddrives all dressed up / Ready to kill / Gold-plated get-up / And luckier still” serves as both hook and thesis statement, encapsulating the song’s exploration of the blurred lines between human and machine in modern life. This track positions Ackerman as a thoughtful voice in the indie folk landscape, capable of tackling weighty themes with a light touch.