Introducing Mr. Husband, the moniker of Maryland songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist Kenny Tompkins, someone who wears many hats, not only within this project, but also outside of it as a now-defunct label owner, dark synth-pop artist by the name of Hyperviolets and solar panel installer. It’s clear that Tompkins isn’t comfortable with space in his schedule, which has kept Mr. Husband going since its debut release back in 2017. His first single of this year is ‘Is It Real?’, a melodic indie-rock number laced with soft psychedelia and americana twangs.
Joining Tompkins on this track are his brother Curt Tompkins (bass), Chris Morris (drummer) and Adam Laye (lapsteel), each of whom bring an essential element to the timeless-yet-fresh heartland rock soundscape. From the very start, ‘Is It Real?‘ wraps listeners up into upbeat rhythms and winding strings, setting the tone for that warm, easygoing vocal.
When the track arrives at its crux-point, those laidback vocals heat-up in intensity to ask, “is it real? or is it fantasy?”, while at the same time, the instrumentation rises up into a psychedelic swell. It all comes down to this question, especially in an era of relentless fake news and AI’s growing capabilities. It’s a subtle reminder to employ your critical thinking to discover the truth for yourself.
At just over four minutes, this might be a track full of forward-facing momentum, but Mr. Husband isn’t rushing listeners out the other side. True to Maryland’s famous hospitality, ‘Is It Real?‘ invites you in and makes you feel right at home.
You can also listen to ‘Is It Real?’ in our Folk This Way playlist.
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