Andrew McArthur & Falcon Jane ‎- We Get By (2020) Hi-Res

John Prine’s classic tune has always hit me hard, but now, during this indefinite period of isolation, and after his passing, the song rings ever truer, ever louder, ever deeper. The long Monday. The hangover. The postpartum. The state of solemn reflection and loneliness after the warmth of company. These long days are filled with nostalgia, quiet memories, and the longing for those good times that would typically carry you through the dark days. We are in the long Monday of our regular lives.

Over the last few months, amidst the endless supply of incredible music to listen to, five songs stood out to Andrew and me. These songs felt especially powerful and relevant; each talking about darkness in their own way, each giving off a sense of loneliness and isolation, each being unsure about what the future might hold. Andrew and I didn’t set out to make an EP, nor did we realize it was happening until it was done. Each song just seemed to perfectly capture a part of how we were feeling. So we wanted to speak the words, play the melodies, and feel the rhythms ourselves.

Sara May is the creative force behind Canadian indie band Falcon Jane. She’s a vegan virgo from rural Ontario and one of those special souls that finds peace and truth through making music. She’s one of a kind. Falcon Jane’s songs are beautifully balanced: honest yet subtle lyrics, straightforward yet ethereal production, and deeply emotional yet bright, fun songwriting.

They’re founders of “plez rock”, a genre based on pleasantness and feeling good. It’s cute, and maybe a bit cheeky, but it’s dead on. Falcon Jane’s songs convey depth and lightness in equal measure, and they’re a joy to listen to. In short, it’s absolutely pleasant rock. Over the last several years, especially since releasing their 2015 album Alive n Well, Falcon Jane have toured Eastern Canada and played in Toronto’s legendary venues countless times. Their third full-length album, Feelin’ Freaky, is out now on Darling Recordings.