this is a music journal that i started working on in early 2018 where i was nationally touring and performing live at sold out events while privately, my life was unravelling. it began as a few poorly recorded bounces of some covers but over time, it grew organically in different directions.  i never planned on releasing this music but after carrying it around for years, i wanted to let it go and share some intimate art that i made in during bouts of depression, loneliness, and vulnerability. 

all of these songs I recorded and mixed myself, returning back to my original DIY roots. all of the tracks are messy, unfinished, and raw which is the true reflection of myself at the time of recording.

nmaiku

A bittersweet farewell awaits fans of cross-genre artist Max Felker, as he unveils his latest, and final solo studio album, "where do we go from here?" is slated for release on April 1, 2023. This five-track opus is a masterful exploration of the emotional complexities of letting go, self-discovery, and finding peace—all wrapped in Felker's iconic emo and punk rock fusion.

Kicking off the album with a bang, "x of swords" channels the energy of classic American punk and draws inspiration from tarot symbolism. The track dives headfirst into the struggles of ego surrender and control, showcasing Felker's raw intensity that sets the tone for the rest of the album.

"the weight of the world" tugs at the heartstrings as Max delves into the anguish of loss and the trauma that ensues. Produced by the gifted Ambrose, this introspective song captivates listeners with its haunting melodies and emotionally charged lyrics.

The third track showcases Max and Superstar Freddy in "133am in atx," an introspective journey set against the backdrop of late-night Austin, Texas. The autocrooning, emo-hiphop performance harken’s to familiar past works where the duo reminisce about better days and yearning for what once was. 

With "broken arrow," Felker ingeniously weaves sounds from the Vietnam War into a sonic tapestry, immersing listeners in a vivid and intense musical experience. The track's title alludes to a military tactic involving self-sacrifice—a powerful metaphor for the themes Max explores throughout his album, demonstrating his exceptional storytelling prowess.

The album reaches its zenith with "gallows," a folk-punk track infused with a wild-west theme that serves as a stark reminder of our shared mortality. Through the allegory of the law catching up to an outlaw, Max spins a timeless tale of time and life itself. The track's raw energy and evocative lyrics strike a chord, driving home themes of redemption and acceptance as the album comes to a close.

In "where do we go from here?" Max Felker delivers a poignant and deeply personal farewell, showcasing his signature cross-genre artistry and his ability to tackle complex, introspective themes with raw honesty and vulnerability. This album is not only a fitting conclusion to Max’s solo career, but a testament to his lasting impact as an emo-punk trailblazer.

Fans can anticipate the album's release on April 1, 2023, on all major streaming platforms. For more on Max Felker and his music, visit https://maxfelker.com or follow him on social media at @maxfelker.

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