With their latest EP ‘Alone in a Crowded Place’, New Jersey’s Water Street invite us into a musical scrapbook of moments, each track unfolding like a different page marked by shifting tempos, diverse moods, and a shared vulnerability. The result is a collection that feels remarkably authentic: layered, unpredictable, and undeniably cohesive in its emotional resonance.
From the very start of ‘The White Rabbit’, the band sets the tone for an EP steeped in self-reflection and the disorienting pace of modern life. With frontman Dave Paulson’s contemplative lyrics steering the ship, the track captures the feeling of being swept up in a world that rarely pauses. It’s a sentiment that lingers throughout the release, one that’s mirrored not only in the lyrics but also in the interplay between the band’s folk roots and more kinetic rock flourishes.
But what truly sets this release apart is the democratic spirit behind its creation. For the first time, the band wrote everything together from the ground up and that camaraderie shows throughout. Julia Aiello’s harmonies intertwine beautifully with Paulson’s, and the chemistry between bassist Brendon Gardner, guitarist Eddie Woodcock, keyboardist Alex Kerssen, and drummer Connor Konecik gives each song a rich, collaborative depth.
‘Everest’ slows the momentum to a gentle crawl, offering a moment of breath and introspection, while ‘Overdue’ taps into a more radio-ready pop-rock energy without ever losing its emotional weight. It’s a delicate balancing act, and Water Street walks the line with care and conviction.
Produced by Tyler Ripley, the EP glows with crisp, warm tones and thoughtful arrangements. The group’s genre-blurring identity- part rootsy storytelling, part indie-pop charm- is solidified here more confidently than ever before.
‘Alone in a Crowded Place’ is a statement of identity. It’s about confronting disconnection by creating something together. Water Street have crafted a body of work that speaks directly to those searching for meaning in the noise, and in doing so, they offer the kind of solace that only honest music can provide.
