When the sounds of alternative rock, indie and alternative country collide, you end up with what Atlanta-based trio Kobanova like to call ‘Southern Alternative Rock.’ Formed by singer Jimmy Riemer, guitarist Wes Bacastow and pianist Chris Dickson at the University of Georgia in Athens, Georgia, the band first made their mark in 2019 with the single “Far From Home.”
Now based in Atlanta and riding on the success of their EP For Better or Worse, Kobanova is gearing up for the release of their debut full-length record, an eponymous album titled Kobanova. This upcoming LP promises to be a comprehensive re-release, featuring the band’s existing songs fully remastered for an immersive listening experience.
But before the album’s arrival, Kobanova brings us a taste of what’s to come with the brand new single titled “KOBANOVA (Fly High).” It’s a song that captures the blurry, bleary-eyed aftermath of a night filled with heavy drinking. In classic Kobanova fashion, the track is steeped in their signature alternative country rock sound, brimming with infectious hooks and exquisite musicianship.
The song opens with the bright plucking of an acoustic guitar joined by Jimmy Riemer’s rich vocals weaving a lyrical tapestry that vividly portrays the experience of waking up after a night of revelry and attempting to piece together the fragmented memories obscured by a hangover’s fog. As it progresses, playful piano flourishes and the gentle tap of drums enhance the arrangement.
The song’s energy gradually builds, adopting a light groove and introducing instantly catchy melodic leads. However, it’s in the chorus that the song truly takes flight. The addition of crunchy guitar tones, the vocal contributions of guitarist Wes Bacastow and the bouncy piano chords courtesy of Chris Dickson create a sensational and truly captivating sonic experience.
The pinnacle of this musical journey arrives in the form of a slick guitar solo which delivers a dazzling display of artistic flair. With the impending release of their debut album Kobanova, this trio from the South is no doubt set to win over more fans around the world.
Commenting on the new single, they share, “Fly High feels like the proper conclusion to the first chapter of our musical journey. The song embodies the pains of the late night partying lifestyle that we adopted in college. As we’re finding out, the late nights take a tougher toll being in our mid-20’s.”
Listen to KOBANOVA (Fly High) below
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