B-Side Guys

The Color Study’s “An Anthem” lives up to its ambitious title, offering a sweeping indie rock opus that grapples with love, mortality, and the vastness of the universe. This track from the Bend, Oregon-based band’s EP “Canyons” showcases their ability to blend introspective lyrics with expansive, cinematic soundscapes.

From the opening notes, “An Anthem” envelops listeners in a lush sonic environment. The instrumentation builds gradually, layering guitars, horns, and synths to create a sound that’s both intimate and immense. This approach calls to mind the experimental rock of Spiritualized, while maintaining a rootsy, Wilco-esque emotional core.

Lyrically, the song is a powerful meditation on the transience of life and the enduring nature of love. Lines like “When it rains we will wash into the sea / All the pieces and the parts of our bodies” confront mortality head-on, while the chorus’s declaration “I will find you, I’ll always try” serves as a defiant promise in the face of cosmic indifference. This juxtaposition of existential dread and unwavering devotion gives the song its emotional resonance.

The track’s structure mirrors its thematic content, building from quiet introspection to a cathartic, horn-driven climax. Scott Oliphant’s vocals navigate this journey with aplomb, his delivery shifting from tender to impassioned as the song progresses. The six-piece band’s chemistry is evident throughout, each member contributing to the track’s rich tapestry without overwhelming the delicate balance.

“An Anthem” positions The Color Study as a band unafraid to tackle big questions through their music. By marrying philosophical musings with infectious melodies and lush arrangements, they’ve created a song that’s both thought-provoking and emotionally stirring. It’s a promising indication of the depths explored in their “Canyons” EP and a compelling argument for keeping an eye on this rising Oregon outfit.