Boy Golden, the alter ego of Canadian songwriter Liam Duncan, crafts music that floats effortlessly above the weight of the times. His new album, For Eden, captures the fleeting lightness of youth against a backdrop of uncertainty. The closing track, “Untitled,” encapsulates this theme, reflecting on the aimless yet hopeful days spent in the same familiar bars, serving drinks, and dreaming of a future that feels increasingly out of reach. Through pop-infused melodies and conversational lyrics, Duncan expresses the bittersweet realization that the future might not hold the promises once imagined.
In “Untitled,” Duncan sings, “Made a little money selling my record / I couldn’t tell you where it all went,” a line that cuts to the heart of the independent musician’s struggle. The song balances optimism with the stark reality of a creative life where even small successes, like buying a better guitar, don’t always pay the rent. Yet, Duncan’s approach to this reality is refreshingly light-hearted, as he chooses to see the bright side without ignoring the shadows that accompany it.
For Eden is a sonic journey through the life of a modern troubadour, blending banjo, acoustic guitar, and even drum machines into a tapestry of sound that’s as eclectic as it is cohesive. Duncan’s lyrics often read like mantras for staying positive in challenging times, as in lines like, “Music before language / love before profits / I’ll take my wide-eyed optimism / in the face of all of it.” This philosophy permeates the album, making it a perfect summer soundtrack for anyone looking to find solace in simplicity and joy in the everyday.
The album also explores themes of escape and freedom, particularly in the track “Boy,” where Duncan sweetly sings about paying off debts and hitting the road. The song paints a picture of a carefree journey in a van with the windows down and the music turned up, offering a temporary refuge from life’s worries. This imagery is brought to life in For Eden’s cover art, featuring Duncan’s trusty 1995 Toyota van—a symbol of the rambling, DIY spirit that defines his music.
In songs like “The Way,” Duncan reflects on moments of clarity found in unexpected places, such as wandering the streets of Amsterdam. His light vocals and introspective lyrics capture the idea that change is inevitable, and perhaps even necessary. This ability to embrace change, both in the world and within oneself, is central to Boy Golden’s music, and it’s what makes For Eden a refreshing, optimistic record for uncertain times. – Jason Felton