There’s a reason we still keep writers around—Unsureway’s new track “I Am a Nervous Man” is a prime example. It has it all: Clever rhyme schemes, wordplay, mastery over the sound of words. But more important than any of that, there is the conveyance of a feeling too complex to distil into conversational language. In this case, that feeling is an ever-present blanket of anxiety covering a man’s life and his relationships. Layer all of that over a very meaty, very punk bass riff, and you’ve got something seriously special. The song is clearly focused on the lyrics, and rightfully so, but it still doesn’t miss a beat musically.
Unsureway (a.k.a. Joey Goebel) identifies as an author first and foremost, at least online, but damn can he make a good song. Imagine if your coolest language arts teacher showed up to class with an axe and proceeded to lay down the most soul touching lyrics you’ve ever heard. Take these two lines for example: “I hate to say it but somebody’s gotta mention there’s a microscopic line between our faith and superstition / I can’t accommodate the daily fluctuation am I something am I nothing am I worth a visitation”. So much is touched on and deeply expressed there, and that only makes up less than five seconds of the song. Of course, I have to mention that this is all cradled in the soft, comforting drawl of a Kentucky accent. This is (biased as I may be as a native of the state) a cherry on top and a great addition to any work of art involving sound.
Check out Unsureway’s other tracks wherever you stream music, or buy them on Bandcamp. Maybe check out one of Goebel’s novels while you’re at it. If this song is any indication, it’s all sure to be worth it.
Written by Jonah Cashel
