Dylan Rockwell - “I.W.A.L.Y.”
Photo by Alec Pugliese
From Washington, D.C., singer-songwriter Dylan Rockwell has just released the anthemic pop-folk-rock banger “I.W.A.L.Y.”
Despite the title and upbeat musings, “I.W.A.L.Y.” is definitely not a syrupy, saccharine love song. But it is unashamedly widescreen from start to finish in the same way all catchy ear worm singles are. It delights us with fist clenched power ballad moments over the bridges, bringing to mind REO Speedwagon. So, make sure you have your cigarette lighters at hand to raise skyward as those sections hit. It also gives us brief hints of tender intimacy in-between the bombast.
Held tight by a strutty drum beat, we’re chicaned through one hook after another in a groove that never lets up. Upbeat whistling, loose splashes of vivid pedal steel, and sweet lead guitar all dance around a rhythm section that pivots from staccato bursts to soaring open-armed chords. In every sense, “I.W.A.L.Y.” cannot help but hit radio friendly paydirt showcasing Dylan Rockwell’s songwriting talent in all the best possible ways.
I cannot give enough praise for the impassioned vocal performance on this track. It is full of energy; it is tight and hits with accuracy. From start to finish, it is supported by harmonies that only serve to heighten the impact of the performance.
On the meaning behind “I.W.A.L.Y.,” Dylan Rockwell adds: “A simple love song in the most grand sense possible. I.W.A.L.Y. is about overflowing with love and gratitude for your partner, your friends, your family, and humankind. Sometimes in our lives we’re lucky enough to have a moment where we really, truly, feel it. This song was written during one of those times and with the understanding that the feeling will always come around again.”
Utterly infectious and brimming full of emotion, “I.W.A.L.Y.” is the first song to be taken from Rockwell’s forthcoming EP. Connect with Dylan Rockwell: Instagram | Spotify | Bandcamp