Brooklyn’s own indie-rock outfit Whitehall has just released their highly awaited album National Finals Rodeo, featuring their newest single and alternative anthem in the making, “Breakdowns.”
The first few reverberating guitar strums of “Breakdowns” immediately command your attention, and they don’t let go until the end of the song’s 4-minute run. When singer Paddy McKiernan’s voice comes into play, indie-rock enthusiasts may as well have found themselves in heaven. The chorus features the perfect mix of jangly guitar riffs, effortless vocals, and unforgettable hooks that makes for the ideal indie anthem to soundtrack your fall.
The story behind the track is all too relatable – the members of Whitehall say they were inspired to write it after an emotionally taxing day when they hit the “proverbial wall” and exhausted themselves with a never-ending project. Writing this song was allegedly cathartic for the band, who felt like they had finally “closed the book” on that feeling of frustration with endless work.
“‘Breakdowns’ is what comes from hitting the proverbial wall—it’s the feeling at 10pm when you’re grinding on a project that seems to never end… This song came from a little humming after a long day like that when I was emotionally spent. Writing it out helped me to resolve my day, name that feeling fully, and ultimately move forward, knowing that I had closed the book on the feeling.”
-Whitehall
“Breakdowns” is just one of the many hard-hitting tracks on National Finals Rodeo. Coined their most emotionally expansive record yet, the LP includes several vulnerable singles such as “Malibu #2,” “Come Visit,” “Baby Steps,” “Fires in Canada,” and more in its 11-track run.
Whitehall first formed in Charleston, SC before relocating to Brooklyn, where they’ve cemented themselves as the rising stars to watch in the modern indie-rock scene. The four-piece outfit includes Paddy McKiernan on vocals and guitar, Avery Greeson on guitar, Brennan Clark on bass, and Davis Rowe on drums. They’ve shared stages nationwide with major alternative acts such as the Goo Goo Dolls, Arlie, and Carver Commodore.
If you’ll be in the NYC area, be sure to catch Whitehall playing Brooklyn’s Purgatory on Saturday, September 20 at 7:00 p.m.
Stream the album here, and for more information on Whitehall and their music, click here.
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