North Jersey-based band Water Street kicks off 2025 with the release of their latest single, Everest, a profound and introspective track that explores the emotional weight of confronting seemingly insurmountable challenges. Released via Free Dive Collective, the song was recorded throughout 2024 at Little Brother Audio in West Philadelphia and expertly produced and mixed by Tyler Ripley. With its slow-building intensity and layered instrumentation, Everest captures a poignant journey from stagnation to self-realization.
Lead singer Dave Paulson explains the song’s genesis as a moment of creative clarity that emerged unexpectedly. “This song came together very quickly in one sitting,” Paulson shares. “It’s about futility—feeling like what you’re doing doesn’t have a point. The verses represent someone stuck in life, and the choruses reflect their own inaction, recognizing that the only thing holding them back is their mindset.” His raw honesty resonates deeply throughout the track, making it a mirror for listeners wrestling with their own life hurdles.
Complementing Paulson’s sentiment, keys and saxophone player Alex Kerssen offers a poetic take on the track’s emotional core. “This song captures that feeling of ‘damn, this really isn’t working out for me, is it?’ It’s about those tough questions we avoid and the answers we already fear. I encourage listeners to embrace some late-night brooding while immersing themselves in the song.”
Everest thrives on its meticulously crafted soundscape, where moody instrumentals and smooth vocals envelop the listener in a nocturnal atmosphere. Bassist Brendon Gardner highlights the deceptively simple yet crucial production elements. “The space between the notes was key to capturing the right emotion. Even the slightest misstep could break the song’s spell,” he notes. This attention to detail ensures a cohesive sonic experience that holds the listener from start to finish.
One of the track’s standout moments is the unexpected guitar solo by lead guitarist Eddie Woodcock, who initially thought a sax solo would take the spotlight. “I was completely unprepared,” Woodcock admits. “But that actually worked in my favor—I didn’t overthink it. The solo became this raw, instinctive expression that matched the song’s theme perfectly.”
The band, consisting of six talented members—Dave Paulson (vocals/guitar), Brendon Gardner (bass), Connor Konecnik (drums), Julia Aiello (vocals), Edward Woodcock (lead guitar), and Alex Kerssen (keys/saxophone)—continues to push creative boundaries. With Everest, Water Street delves into soulful and meaningful storytelling, crafting music that resonates on a deeply personal level.
As singer Julia Aiello poignantly reflects, “Finding your way out of that darkness is extremely difficult. When you finally come up for air, it feels like you’re drowning again. How do you stay afloat? That’s a question I’m still trying to answer.”
With its atmospheric sound, introspective lyrics, and emotive performances, Everest is a testament to Water Street‘s artistry and growth. The track is now available on all major streaming platforms, inviting listeners to embark on their own emotional journey and summit the challenges in their lives alongside the band’s captivating music.