Indie Folk from Karmic Neighborhood

Accomplished musicians Armand Ruby and Julian Colbeck combine as the duo Karmic Neighborhood, who’ve just released their latest single, “Everybody Needs to Love,” as part of a series of singles leading up to the soundtrack album launch for their feature film, Equinox the Musical. This heartfelt ballad captures the essence of human connection and carries a powerful message. In Equinox the Musical, “Everybody Needs to Love” is a duet between the curmudgeonly Professor, with vocals by Armand Ruby, and the compassionate café waitress, Amy with Ariel Thiermann lending her voice. The song unfolds within the screenplay as the Professor expresses his dissatisfaction with a homeless man sitting outside the café; in response, Amy reveals that the man is a homeless veteran struggling with debilitating PTSD, with Amy’s empathy and kindness gradually opening the Professor’s heart to a more compassionate perspective.

The inspiration for this song stems from real-life encounters. While working in an office in Davis, California, Armand would often observe a disheveled man sitting on the curb outside a nearby fast-food restaurant. This unassuming figure appeared somber yet peaceful. One day, Armand took a moment to greet the man and offered to buy him a sandwich which man gratefully accepted and, upon receiving the sandwich, carefully divided it in half, saving a portion for later. This simple act of kindness made a profound impact on Armand, revealing the fundamental truth that being human involves not only desiring love but also the inherent need to love others.

With “Everybody Needs to Love,” Karmic Neighborhood delivers a soulful indie folk ballad that resonates deeply. The song opens with a captivating piano arrangement that sets a contemplative mood. Ariel Thiermann’s exquisite vocals gracefully float above spinning picture-painting lyrics, delivered through heartwarming melodies. The poignant line, “everybody wants to be loved, and everybody needs to love,” reverberates with raw emotion.

As the song progresses, a gentle drum beat enters, providing a rhythmic foundation that leads to the entrance of Armand Ruby’s velvety vocals. The seamless interplay between their voices creates a stunning and moving duet, exemplifying the power of connection. As Ariel’s voice re-enters, the song reaches its crescendo, enhanced by delicate string arrangements that elevate the song to a state of mesmeric sonic beauty.

“Everybody Needs to Love” showcases the artistic talent and emotional depth of Karmic Neighborhood’s songwriting and musical arrangements. The track encapsulates the universal yearning for love and the essential role that compassion plays in our lives. With their heartfelt lyrics and soul-stirring melodies, Karmic Neighborhood continues to demonstrate their ability to create music that resonates on both an emotional and intellectual level.

As they build anticipation for the release of Equinox the Musical, Karmic Neighborhood’s “Everybody Needs to Love” stands as a testament to their talent and their commitment to crafting music with a profound message. It’s a reminder that, despite our differences and struggles, love and empathy are the cornerstones of our shared humanity.

Commenting on the single, Armand Ruby shares, “This song speaks to the reality of our shared humanity, and the possibility that love and compassion can arise within us when we confront the more difficult aspects of the human condition.” With Julian Colbeck adding, “Everybody Needs to Love is a raw, no-frills piano ballad about the need for human kindness.”

Listen to Everybody Needs to Love below