B-Side Guys

Drawing Mazes emerges as a beacon of introspective pop with their self-titled EP, set for release on October 4th, 2024. This six-track odyssey, clocking in at a concise 17 minutes, represents a poignant exploration of anxiety, connection, and the search for meaning in uncertain times.

Drawing Mazes, the brainchild of Chicago-based singer-songwriter-producer Chris Pusinelli, has already garnered critical acclaim for their debut EP “Living with Friction.” Now, with this sophomore effort, Pusinelli delves deeper into the human psyche, crafting a sonic tapestry that’s both deeply personal and universally relatable.

The EP kicks off with “Patient and Gracious,” a track that sets the tone for the journey ahead. Pusinelli’s vocals, tender yet resolute, float atop a bed of intricate instrumentation. It’s a song that speaks to the struggle of maintaining composure in the face of life’s challenges, a theme that resonates throughout the EP.

“Canyon Wolves” follows, its title evoking images of vast, untamed wilderness. Here, Pusinelli’s songwriting shines, drawing parallels between the natural world and the landscape of human emotion. The production is notably expansive, creating a sense of space that mirrors the song’s lyrical content.

The EP’s standout track, “Your Favorite Book,” serves as a bridge between past and present. Originally conceived as a guitar-based song, this reimagined version pulsates with playful bass lines and aggressive drumming. It’s a testament to Pusinelli’s growth as an artist, demonstrating his ability to breathe new life into familiar themes.

“Why Do I Always Think Too Much?” is likely to resonate with anyone who’s ever found themselves caught in a spiral of overthinking. Pusinelli’s lyrics here are particularly sharp, capturing the frustration and self-doubt that often accompany anxiety. The music, however, provides a counterpoint of hope, suggesting that even in our darkest moments, there’s light to be found.

The EP’s emotional core lies in “Your Joy (Remembered),” a piece that originated in May 2020 during the height of pandemic uncertainty. This track features a simple, looping piano melody accompanied by the sound of a child’s laughter. It’s a raw, unfiltered moment of beauty amidst chaos, capturing the dichotomy of a parent’s fear and a child’s innocent joy. The inclusion of this 2020 recording adds depth and context to the EP, serving as a time capsule of sorts.

Closing out the EP is “Vienna Beef,” a track that showcases Pusinelli’s ability to find profound meaning in the mundane. While the title might suggest a lighthearted ode to Chicago’s culinary heritage, the song itself is a meditation on identity and belonging.

What sets this EP apart is its seamless blend of introspection and accessibility. Pusinelli has a knack for wrapping weighty themes in melodies that stick with you long after the final notes fade. The production throughout is crisp and inventive, balancing intimate moments with more expansive soundscapes.

Thematically, the EP grapples with questions that feel particularly relevant in our current cultural moment. How do we find peace in a world that often seems chaotic? Where do we look for answers – to our past, or within ourselves? Pusinelli doesn’t offer easy solutions, but rather invites listeners to join him on a journey of self-discovery.

For fans of introspective indie pop in the vein of Sufjan Stevens or The Postal Service, Drawing Mazes’ self-titled EP is essential listening. It’s a work that rewards repeated plays, revealing new layers of meaning with each spin.

As Drawing Mazes prepares to release this EP into the world, it’s clear that Chris Pusinelli has found his voice as an artist. Building on the success of “Living with Friction,” this self-titled effort represents a significant leap forward in terms of songwriting and production.

In a musical landscape often dominated by artifice, Drawing Mazes offers something refreshingly genuine. This EP serves as both a time capsule of recent history and a roadmap for navigating the complexities of the human experience. As the final notes of “Vienna Beef” fade away, listeners are left with a sense of having experienced something truly special – a musical journey through the maze of modern life, guided by an artist unafraid to show his vulnerability and share his hope.