Mat Kearney just released a new album, Just Kids, a few weeks ago. Honestly, we have not stopped listening to it since it dropped.
The album is a compilation of incredible narratives and lyrics that speak to the most elemental of feelings. Two songs off of Just Kids are especially relevant for anyone who’s on Too Damn Young.
“Miss You” and “Ghost” are both songs written about losing someone you love. Together they offer snapshots of two different angles of grief and the death of loved ones.
“Miss You” has a beat that’s uplifting and close to celebratory, but once you zero in on the lyrics you’re drawn into a sad narrative. (Listen to “Miss You” here)
The juxtaposition of an uplifting beat with words that speak to your grief almost makes you let out a huge sigh of relief because this is life. The world keeps on spinning, but you’re allowed to reflect and be sad and miss your loved one.
Every time I break these chains
Every time I feel this pain
Nothing really ever changed
I’m gonna miss you
“Ghost” on the other hand is a sad song, from the music to the lyrics. The song draws those moments when you’re alone with your what ifs and memories that can’t be put to rest. Off the chorus, Mat Kearney sings, “Oh won’t you tell me why/ I keep waiting up at night,/Leaving on the lights/Like you never said goodbye?”
And, it sucks, because 9 out of 10 is that you know how that feels. On the other hand, it’s always relieving to know someone else just gets it.
Have you listened to Mat Kearney’s new album? What do you think of Just Kids?
