Indie Rock from Byland

Based between Seattle and Albuquerque, Byland offers a distinctive sound, stitching together influences that span from Brandi Carlile’s contemporary folk to the grandeur of Manchester Orchestra’s rock sound, all while embracing the lyrical authenticity of classic songwriting. Fronted by Alie, whose musical talents include vocals, piano, guitar and digital percussion, and powered by her husband Jake’s production wizardry in their home studio, Byland possesses a deep-rooted belief that music should be a conduit for human connection.

Now, following a brief hiatus, Byland returns with a new single titled “Monstera,” her first original release since 2020’s debut album, Gray. This song serves as the overture for an upcoming tour, which mirrors the migratory route between Albuquerque and Seattle, a journey that Alie herself has traversed countless times over the past decade.

“Monstera” serves up a smokey indie rock masterpiece, reflecting the twilight drives through the vast American landscape. It’s a tribute to a close friend and former bandmate, bearing the weight of profound emotions. Byland confesses that crafting this song was a trying endeavour, as it straddles the line between a love letter and an unapologetic declaration.

The song is driven by a gently shuffling drumbeat, interweaving with subtly gritty guitar tones, setting the stage for Alie’s emotive vocal delivery. Her voice, hushed and restrained, carries the weight of the lyrics, which she delivers with aching vulnerability.

The “Monstera” tour retraces this migratory route, a poignant echo of the personal journey that inspired the song. This time, Alie is accompanied by her band and her songwriting partner, husband Jake Byland, amplifying the song’s profound impact.

Listen to Monstera below

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