In a significant shift from his band Moaning, singer-songwriter Sean Solomon has unveiled his first solo endeavor. His debut single “Car Crash,” an introspective indie-folk piece, accompanied by a self-directed and animated music video, marks the beginning of his solo journey. After stepping back from the chaos of the music industry, Solomon found solace in animation and collaborations with renowned artists. This experience allowed him to return to songwriting with a newfound freedom and authenticity. The track reflects on a life-altering car accident and the emotional turmoil it brought, while the music video showcases his unique artistic vision.
From Band Member to Solo Artist: A Journey of Self-Discovery
Solomon's transition from being part of a group to embarking on a solo career was not immediate. Following Moaning's indefinite hiatus, he immersed himself in the world of animation, collaborating with notable acts like Run the Jewels and Unknown Mortal Orchestra. This period offered him a break from the pressures of the music scene and allowed him to explore different forms of creative expression. Eventually, the call to write music returned, but this time, it came with a fresh perspective. Freed from major label constraints, Solomon began crafting songs purely for personal satisfaction, leading to the creation of “Car Crash.”
The process of writing “Car Crash” was deeply personal for Solomon. It stemmed from a pivotal moment in his life—a car accident that profoundly affected him. Growing up in Los Angeles, he had always avoided driving, finding comfort in daydreaming as a passenger. However, when he finally got behind the wheel, the experience ended in a crash that totaled his vehicle. The song is a raw recounting of this incident and its lasting impact on his psyche. Solomon admits that the song’s meaning remains somewhat elusive even to him, leaving room for listeners to interpret it in their own way. This ambiguity adds to the song’s depth and emotional resonance.
An Artistic Fusion of Music and Animation
The release of “Car Crash” is complemented by a visually striking music video that merges Solomon’s musical talent with his passion for animation. The video features hand-drawn faces and 2D cats, creating a surreal and whimsical atmosphere. This visual style aligns perfectly with the song’s introspective lyrics, enhancing the storytelling aspect. For Solomon, combining his artwork with music represents a new level of authenticity. He acknowledges that this project feels more genuine than anything he’s done before, despite the vulnerability it entails. Embracing his quirky, nerdy side, Solomon sees this fusion as a true reflection of who he is—an artist unafraid to be unconventional.
To bring “Car Crash” to life, Solomon enlisted the help of Shannon Lay, whose harmonies add a layer of emotional depth to the track. Lay’s involvement provided the encouragement Solomon needed to fully commit to his solo work. Their friendship, rooted in shared experiences and mutual admiration, played a crucial role in shaping the final product. In a recent statement, Solomon expressed gratitude for Lay’s support, noting that her reaction to his demos was instrumental in motivating him to record the songs. Together, they created something truly special—a blend of heartfelt lyrics and mesmerizing visuals that captures Solomon’s essence as both a musician and an artist.