A dream-like and tranquil escape

The indie rock band Real Estate just recently released a new EP titled Half a Human, which follows their 2020 album, The Main Thing. The new EP features six songs that all have a vintage and relaxed sound combined with lengthy, mesmerizing instrumentals that carry the audience to a distant place. 

The EP title track, “Half a Human,” is the second song on the project and a few seconds short of six minutes. The song contains two verses and two choruses in which the lyrics are full of imagery explaining how they feel only half alive, perhaps a nod to the life we’ve all been living for the past year. While there are only two verses and choruses, the lyrics are powerful and allow the listener to get a glimpse inside the artists’ minds. The second chorus is followed by a three-minute instrumental that transports the listener. A hypnotic lead guitar is layered over the rhythm guitar creating a tranquil melody. Like many of the songs on the EP, “Half a Human” is an easy and relaxing listen with lyrics that make the audience think. 

The third track on the EP is titled “Soon.” On this track, Real Estate tells a story about time and waiting. They lay out that “there’s no such thing as soon” in the refrain that follows each of the verses. After the smooth vocals fade out, the song continues with a dream-like instrumental that contains a melodious lead guitar, steady rhythm guitar, bass and drums that blend to create a laid-back sound. 

On the fifth track, “In the Garden,” a bass creates a groove that the vocals and guitar float over. The lyrics convey that while not everything has worked out in their favor, they have remained optimistic and perhaps a bit naive as well. The music is easy to listen to, but the lyrics are deep and tell the harsh realities and imperfections of life. After the last chorus, a three-minute instrumental closes out the track, providing a lighter feel in contrast to the seriousness of the lyrics, as guitar and synthesizer surround you with a peaceful and inviting melody. 

Real Estate’s newest release, Half a Human, makes the listener ponder their deep lyrics but also allows them to escape into another world through their mesmerizing guitars and tranquil melodies.