B-Side Guys

Ontario Red’s debut single “Keeping Guard” emerges as a delicate exploration of self-imposed barriers and unspoken truths. The trio—comprising vocalist Sereda and songwriters Tommy Harkey and Matt Thaler—crafts an intimate acoustic landscape that serves as a fitting backdrop for their introspective narrative.

From the first gentle guitar strums, “Keeping Guard” envelops listeners in a cocoon of melancholy warmth. The instrumentation is sparse yet purposeful, each note carefully placed to support rather than overshadow Sereda’s emotive vocals. This minimalist approach allows the song’s emotional core to shine through unobstructed.

Sereda’s voice is the centerpiece of the track, her delivery carrying the weight of unspoken confessions. Her performance walks a tightrope between vulnerability and restraint, mirroring the song’s theme of internal struggle. The lyrics paint a picture of an inner sentinel, ever-vigilant in its mission to keep difficult truths at bay, even at the cost of personal growth and redemption.

The songwriting duo of Harkey and Thaler demonstrates a keen understanding of the power of simplicity. Rather than overwhelming the listener with complex metaphors or ornate language, they opt for direct, relatable storytelling. This approach allows the universality of the song’s message to resonate more deeply, inviting listeners to see reflections of their own experiences in the lyrics.

“Keeping Guard” positions Ontario Red as a promising new voice in the folk and Americana scene. The track’s strength lies not in groundbreaking innovation, but in its authentic execution of timeless themes. As a debut, it sets the stage for a musical journey that promises to be as introspective as it is captivating, hinting at depths yet to be plumbed in future releases.