If you had to pick a thread that weaves through the various stages of Hank Sullivant’s colorful career—be it as a founding member of the Whigs, his stint as a touring guitarist for MGMT, or his more recent work as bandleader for Kuroma—it would be a love for polished pop and psychedelia, and the innumerable ways the two can be intertwined. For it’s part, “One Last Rose,” the latest single to be revealed from Sullivant’s upcoming solo debut, Burn in the USA, sounds warm and unhurried, moving along at a steady pace that never peaks or lulls dynamically. The song’s breezy jangle is reminiscent of the Byrds or maybe Tom Petty; it’s both soothing and serene like a calm breeze drifting over the top of a hill.
But beneath the track’s comforting exterior lies a heart far more wistful and contemplative. Lyrically, there’s a glimmer of darkness lurking at the edges, as Sullivant reflects on distant friends, the passage of time, and the potential consequences of a solitary existence. “Is it the price to pay for going it alone / and keeping the shade on where the sun has never shown / and forgetting which ways home,” he ponders early in the song, his tranquil vocals unable to ertase the shadow of his existential doubts.
“‘One Last Rose’ actually has a very religious vibe,” Sullivant explains. “The ‘last rose’ is referring to the last Hail Mary bead on a rosary. It’s one of the more melodic songs on the album and almost feels romantic. It was a perfect track to close this album and I can’t wait to dig into it live.”
Listen below.
Burn in the USA is out June 22 via Laser Brains.
Hank Sullivant’s solo band will make their live debut on Fri., June 22 at Athfest at the Georgia Theatre. Also performing are Neighbor Lady, Hunter Morris & Blue Blood, Nihilist Cheerleader, Twen, Grand Vapids, Justin and the Cosmics, and Jay Gonzalez. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Admission is $10. 18+ to enter.