Happy Little Clouds share new single “Lungs”

Boston-based indie rock band Happy Little Clouds, led by the talented Jac Mestel, has been crafting memorable tunes and playing live since 2010. Known for blending heartfelt lyricism with bluesy vocals and catchy melodies, the band has seen a rotating lineup of talented local musicians, with the current trio consisting of Jac Mestel on vocals and guitar, Jess Townsend on drums and JD Bergstrom on bass.

Together, they create a sound that’s as comforting as it is compelling, offering listeners a blend of post grunge energy and melodic indie rock that’s struck a chord with a growing fanbase. Happy Little Clouds first made their mark with their debut record Shift in 2016, returning this year with new music in the form of three singles.

The band has been playing a string of live shows and have a bunch more performances lined up for the rest of the year. Working on their new material in the studio this summer, they now bring us their latest release with the track titled “Lungs.” Following the release of well-received, energetic singles “The Emperor’s Song” and “I Don’t Suppose,” their new song slows things down with drummer, Jess Townsend explaining, “We felt it was time to release a ballad after two rockin’ numbers. From the moment Jac brought this one to the band, I felt it’s familiarity on a soul level. It just sits in the middle of your chest and squeezes.”

Jac Mestel explains that “Lungs” is about grappling with a major life-shattering event, taking the listener on a journey through the stages of grief and acceptance. Each verse unfolds like a chapter in a hero’s journey, with the protagonist wrestling with their emotions and gradually building the strength to believe in themselves again. The song’s structure mirrors this journey, with the music evolving in tandem with the lyrics, moving from a place of vulnerability to one of empowerment.

Brought in by soulful vocalisations that flutter above fuzzy guitar lines and laid back drums, the tracks settles into a gentle groove of hazy indie rock capped by stunning vocal leads. Flowing with a subtle rhythmic bounce, the steady punch of drums is accented by intricate guitar work as Jac’s voice soars above to craft an epic downtempo rock sound that’s rousing and moving in equal measure.

Filtering their engaging songwriting through a spectacular display of assured musicianship and incredible vocal performance, “Lungs” distils the band’s musical talent to present a new side of their shared sonic vision. As they continue going from strength to strength on their return to releasing original music this year, Happy Little Clouds stake their claim as a must watch band in the modern indie rock sphere.

Listen to Lungs below