On “Burn and Shine,” a cut from his upcoming Windfall album, Joe Pug thought he was charting some new artistic territory … at least for him. “The first part written for this song was the chorus which has kind of a romantic, us-against-the-world spirit to it,” Pug says. “I was excited because I don’t have many songs that are buoyant and light and fun.”
Indeed, if you don’t listen closely, you might just bob your head and tap your toe along with the seemingly cheery little ditty. But, then, if you do listen closely, a darker story starts to unfold right before your very ears. Pug continues his story: “But, sometimes, songs take you by the hand and demand to go where they please. So the next thing I know, a couple hours later after fleshing it out, I have a first verse that ends in suicide and a second verse that ends in alcoholism … and I thought, ‘Damn it! There went my chance to have Kenny Chesney cover this. I gotta learn to lighten up, man.'”
The track is one of 10 on Pug’s tastefully, but ever-artfully produced new set. And each one stands up on its own merit, which is why Pug has drawn comparisons to guys like Ryan Adams and Josh Ritter over the course of his career.
Windfall is set for release on March 10 via Lightning Rod Records.
The Fat Angel Sings 