Bingkai Karya– After a four-year hiatus, Carpet Golf releases their highly awaited sophomore album, “In Between, Out of Phase”. compared to their previous EP, “Not As Good A Fisherman As Brock Lesnar Is A Man”, this record focuses into the complexities of young adulthood, reflecting change, uncertainty, and relationship dynamics. With members transitioning from 9-to-5 to adjusting to life after national service, the album captures the uncertainty and enthusiasm of this life-changing stage.
The songs highlight the challenges and questions of late twenties life, since clarity is limited at 25. The songs reflect on the bittersweet reality of friendships drifting apart, leaving one to question if they even noticed the last time they saw a close friend. Themes of loss and growth echo throughout the album, reflecting the evolution of personal bonds.
“Human Things” highlights frontman Nathaniel‘s first love experience, penned aged 17 as part of The Neptune Waves. The song explores melancholy for former relationships, revisiting emotions from youth through adulthood.
Meanwhile, “Steven For a Year” explores the struggle to find one’s path.
The song reflects self-doubt, feeling out of rhythm, and pressure to succeed, particularly when compared to peers like an older cousin who is successful as an insurance agent while still performing music. The album recognizes the challenges faced and encourages uncertainty.
The song “BORN2LOSE” by bassist Spencer explores love, loss, and the inevitable separation. Amidst thoughtful lyrics, the single reflects on the bittersweet emotions of coping with heartbreak and unresolved feelings. In the song, Spencer explores the nuances of love that may fail but leaves a lasting impression. Its contemplative lyrics provide a relatable and intimate journey of pain and release.
The album uses a unique transition between hard-hitting and melancholy riffs with “I Might Die” starring Benny. The 2.5-minute thoughtful and emotive music examines life’s fragility and uncertainty. The lyrics convey personal stories of fear, sorrow, and doubt through a mix of peaceful, thought-provoking moments and strong emotion. The metaphor of walking in worn shoes and leaving traces symbolizes vulnerability, while the chorus “I might die” expresses the anxiety of internal conflicts and sadness.
“In Between, Out of Phase” has no simple solutions. Instead, it celebrates the complicated, ever-changing process of discovery. The CD depicts the emotional intensity of this era, from nostalgic love to the challenges of making emo music in Singapore, and everything in between.
