Copyright © Dank Stankum 2024 All Rights Reserved
🌾🎶 "Last Dance Alone" is a deeply emotional acoustic folk song that explores the themes of love lost and the poignant beauty of solitary moments. With its heartfelt lyrics and soothing guitar melodies, this song captures the essence of heartache and the bittersweet memories of a final dance.

The song opens with a gentle acoustic guitar intro, setting a reflective and somber tone. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a lone figure swaying to the music, reminiscing about a love that has ended. Each verse delves into the emotions of saying goodbye, highlighting the lingering feelings and cherished memories that remain.

The chorus is powerful and evocative, emphasizing the loneliness and introspection that come with dancing alone for the last time. The bridge offers a moment of heightened emotion, where the singer reflects on the past and the enduring impact of lost love.

Ideal for quiet, introspective evenings or moments of reflection, "Last Dance Alone" is perfect for fans of folk music and singer-songwriter narratives. Its blend of acoustic guitar and soulful lyrics makes it a touching and memorable addition to any playlist.

Add "Last Dance Alone" to your collection to experience the emotional depth and simplicity of acoustic folk music. Whether you're reflecting on lost love or simply enjoying the beauty of well-crafted music, this track will provide a soothing and enriching listening experience. 🌙🎤

Last Dance Alone

"Trevor Said" by These Guitars Say Sorry is a raw, emotional acoustic ballad featuring only percussively strummed guitar and heartfelt vocals delivered in a distinct British accent. With minimalist instrumentation, the song paints vivid portraits of everyday struggles and personal stories, blending folk-rock with social commentary. The stripped-down arrangement allows the poignant lyrics and gritty vocal performance to take center stage, echoing influences from British folk and working-class protest songs. It's a powerful reflection on life’s hardships, resilience, and the scars we carry.

Lyrics

Trevor said he never expected
The thoughts in his head to amount to anything 

Jennifer sits alone in her bedroom
Wondering why the phone never rings


Cathy thinks she wants a divorce
Her husband Jeff doesn’t know it yet


Lucia’s worked 10 years in a factory 
Doesn’t see her kids
But it pays the rent


Can I paint you a picture?
Have you seen it before?
The life and the love and the loss
And yet you ask for more


Life is hard, you can pretend but anyway
How frail we are
Here tomorrow gone today
The pain’s so sharp take me, take me far away
Yet here we are
Showing off the scars we made


Edna said she never expected
To live this long but the end is nigh


The teenage years are always the hardest
Melissa texts and wonders why 

David’s waiting for life to get started 
Anna wishes she had a plan


Christian sits there broken hearted
Thomas is ready to make a stand


Can I paint you a picture?
Have you seen it before?
The life and the love and the loss
And yet you ask for more


Life is hard, you can pretend but anyway 
How frail we are
Here tomorrow gone today
The pain’s so sharp take me, take me far away
Yet here we are
Showing off the scars we made


You can pretend but anyway
You can pretend but anyway
Life's Hard

Trevor Said by These Guitars Say Sorry | Acoustic Folk Rock | Working-Class Ballad

LYRICS : 

The trees are tall, the sky so wide  
But there's a chill I can't shake inside  
The flowers bloom, the sun still shines  
But somewhere, I know, there's danger in the pines

The wind it whispers, the river hums  
But deep in the shadows, the wolf still comes
 
Among the trees, danger hides so well  
But in my heart, I break the spell  
The beauty blinds, but I see clear  
I’ll walk this path, and face my fear  
The forest calls, but I won't fall  
I’ll break the spell, once and for all
 
I hear his footsteps, soft and slow  
The creeping fear that I’ve come to know  
But I'll keep moving, I won’t turn back  
The wolf may follow, but I'll stay on track
 
The moon it rises, the shadows grow  
But I won’t fear what I don’t know
 
Among the trees, danger hides so well  
But in my heart, I break the spell  
The beauty blinds, but I see clear  
I’ll walk this path, and face my fear  
The forest calls, but I won't fall  
I’ll break the spell, once and for all

The forest calls

The Forest Calls

"The Art of Starting Over" - A folk journey through life's unexpected turns. When corporate dreams crumble, sometimes we find our truest selves in the scattered pieces. This song traces the path from cardboard boxes and fluorescent lights to the gentle whisper of guitar strings and the healing strokes of a paintbrush.

Written in the quiet hours between job applications and self-discovery, this piece explores how losing what we thought we needed might lead us to what our soul always wanted. For anyone who's ever had to start again, find their voice, or turn their pain into art.

From corporate corridors to canvas dreams. And yes, 'cow-worker' is intentional - a nod to breaking free from the herd to find your own path. 🎸🎨✨

Lyrics:

Cardboard box of memories left in the hall
Stacks of papers and pictures
A life once tall
Faces and places
Now shadows on the wall
Gatherin' dust
Just waitin' for a call

Under the neon hum
Dreams felt far
Chasin' numbers and hours
Lost who we are
Blazin' through deadlines
Midnight’s last star
Empty hearted wanderers
Wonderin' where we are

Paintbrush strokes on canvas mendin' the soul
Guitar strings whisperin’
Tryin' to make whole
Brush away the sorrow
Let the colors unfold
Melodies and hues
Stories yet untold

Somethin' 'bout the rhythm of gentle strings
A tune to the past
What the future brings
Echoes of laughter
Of simpler things
Nature's own chorus
How the heart sings

Coworker farewells
Bittersweet claims
Chasin' down dreams
Never turning out same
Left with a title
Forgotten their names
Soul-searchin’ battles in corporate games

Paintbrush strokes on canvas mendin' the soul
Guitar strings whisperin’
Tryin' to make whole
Brush away the sorrow
Let the colors unfold
Melodies and hues
Stories yet untold

The Art of Starting Over

"Shawn" is a deeply moving acoustic ballad that serves as a heartfelt tribute to the songwriter's brother. This intimate, guitar-driven composition weaves a poignant narrative of loss, love, and the enduring bond between siblings.

The song's gentle melody provides a tender backdrop for lyrics that paint a vivid portrait of Shawn - a quiet, introspective soul who struggled with alcoholism and the challenges of life after military service. The songwriter's vocals carry a weight of emotion, conveying both the love for his brother and the pain of his untimely loss.

Each verse unfolds like a chapter in Shawn's life, touching on his role as a protector, his struggles with civilian life, and the tragic circumstances of his passing. The pre-chorus and chorus serve as emotional anchors, highlighting the shock of discovery and the lingering questions left in the wake of Shawn's death.

The bridge adds another layer of complexity, addressing family dynamics and the additional pain of unsupportive siblings. This section deepens the song's emotional impact, speaking to the often complicated nature of grief and family relationships.

"Shawn" is more than just a song; it's a musical eulogy that keeps a beloved brother's memory alive. It speaks to anyone who has experienced the loss of a loved one, especially those who have lost siblings or dealt with the impacts of addiction. The song offers a space for reflection, remembrance, and the bittersweet comfort of cherished memories.

Lyrics:

In the silence of June,
the air was so still,
Found you alone,
against your will.
A soldier lost,
with battles unseen,
A life torn apart,
by the ghost of a dream.

The lights were on,
but your voice was gone,
In the shadow of sorrow,
the nights grew long.
The world turned away,
but I knocked on your door,
Two weeks too late,
you weren't there anymore.

Oh Shawn,
my silent knight,
My protector in the darkest night.
Fighting demons, no end in sight,
Left without answers, no goodbye.
Now every June, I wonder why,
No note, no farewell, just silent cries.

Kicked out and lost,
two years too soon,
The Army's hope faded,
under a harsh, cruel moon.
Struggled as a civilian,
money running dry,
A black sheep wandering,
under a starless sky.

Lived with an aunt,
who knew the fight,
But even her heart
couldn’t hold you tight.
Thrown into the world,
where the bottles piled high,
Alone in the dark,
under a forgotten sky.

Two brothers never came,
their excuses so thin,
One too busy,
the other's hollow within.
Grieving for show,
not for the loss,
Their absence a wound,
my heart's heavy cross.

In the echoes of time,
your memory remains,
A whisper of laughter,
amidst all the pain.
I'll keep knocking on doors,
for the love that we knew,
In the heart of June,
I'll always find you.

Shawn

"Eternal Starlight" is a tribute to a beloved friend whose creative spirit burned bright through both shadow and light. Written in conversation with his own song "Shadows & Light," this piece celebrates the life of an artist, musician, and writer who touched countless lives with his gentle heart and boundless imagination.

Like the cosmic dance of stars being born from celestial shadows, this song weaves together the duality of his journey - from his profound artistic gifts and compassionate soul to the weight he carried. Through abstract paintings, watercolor wildlife, and stories of distant worlds, he showed us how to find beauty in the spaces between light and dark.

Though he has moved beyond our reach, his light continues to shine through every life he touched, every creature he saved, and every canvas he filled with dreams. This song is dedicated to his memory and to all those who, like him, navigate the delicate balance between shadows and light.

Lyrics:

Your canvas held both shadow and light,
Gentle soul, creating through the night.
From fractured pieces, you made them whole,
Painting beauty from the depths of your soul.
You gave shelter to the lost and small,
While bearing burdens unseen by all.

Between the shadows and the light,
You showed us how to hold on tight.
Your spirit soared through darkest skies,
Leaving stardust where your art lies.
Though shadows claimed you in the end,
Your light still shines, my dearest friend.

Brother to the broken, friend so true,
You gave your heart, though it split in two.
With every brushstroke, every song,
You built a world where we belong.
In abstract dreams and watercolor skies,
You shared your truth through gentle eyes.

Between the shadows and the light,
You showed us how to hold on tight.
Your spirit soared through darkest skies,
Leaving stardust where your art lies.
Though shadows claimed you in the end,
Your light still shines, my dearest friend.

The stars you followed through the night
Now guide us, carrying your light.
In every sunrise, every song,
Your melody still lingers strong.

Though shadows took you far too soon,
Your light still warms this quiet room.
In every painting, every rhyme,
You live beyond the bounds of time.
And where the dark and daylight blend,
We hear your voice, our timeless friend.

"Between the shadows and the light,
The stars still lead us through the night.
Through every tear and every smile,
We walk this twilight mile by mile.
And when we meet on distant shore,
Your light will shine forevermore."

Eternal Starlight

"Beaumont Nights" - Track 4 from "Echoes of a Life"

A folk rock ballad chronicling a pivotal journey of self-discovery in the oil town of Beaumont, Texas. Set against the backdrop of college dreams and late nights at The Copa, this track weaves together the complexities of first love, personal demons, and the courage to speak one's truth. From dormitory days to midnight evacuations, from lost support to unexpected salvation, the song traces a path through darkness toward a glimmer of hope on San Francisco's distant shore.

With raw vocals, stark guitar work, and emotive piano, "Beaumont Nights" builds from minor-key tension to a bridge of possibility. The arrangement mirrors the journey from confusion to clarity, from rejection to the promise of acceptance, as family reveals itself in unexpected forms.

Echoes of a Life

Beaumont Nights

"Houston Healing" - Track 6 from "Echoes of a Life"

A folk ballad with theatrical flourishes that chronicles a return to Texas and unexpected healing. From the Gay Men's Chorus to museum dreams in Corpus Christi, this song weaves together family reconciliation, new love, and personal struggles. Watch as a father claims his front-row seat, while some wounds still search for voice in therapy rooms and lightning-lit streets.

With thoughtful guitar work, piano accents, and storytelling vocals, "Houston Healing" moves between folk and theatrical influences, capturing both the warmth of newfound acceptance and the restlessness that eventually calls toward California's shore.

Houston Healing

"California Crossroads" - Track 7 from "Echoes of a Life"

A folk rock journey through a pivotal return to the Bay Area, where life's darkest moments intertwine with powerful transformations. From corporate networks to coastal highways, this track weaves together profound loss, unexpected challenges, and the strength found in a 500-mile AIDS Ride along California's coast. Through the loss of a brother and father, through professional pressures and personal awakenings, the song traces a path of recovery and revelation.

With determined guitar work, and emotional vocals, "California Crossroads" moves from fog-shrouded cities to sun-drenched coastal roads, capturing both the shadows and the light of a decade that ultimately points toward new horizons in the Pacific Northwest.

California Crossroads

No damn girl’s ever getting my heart again
Never… never… never, I swear
They devour you inside, leave an empty shell—
A shell no one wants, a soul beyond repair

God, why’d you steal my rib to build this storm?
Why birth a monster instead of a gentle form?
Could’ve ripped out my heart, made a goddess instead
Now I’m left numb—fighting these thoughts in my head

I won’t trust those eyes, won’t lean on any hand
What’s left of me is all I am, I stand
These wounds I hide, they run so deep
But I’ll lock it all away, no tears to weep

No damn girl’s ever getting my feelings again
They spit you out once they’ve tasted your pain
I’ll bury these thoughts in ashes and dust
I’m my own fortress—no room for trust

I gave it all once, got burned to the core
No second chance—my heart’s locked door
And if the angels wonder why I close my eyes
I’m done with illusions—done with cheap goodbyes

It’s not that I can’t love, it’s that I won’t dare
They feed on hope, leave me gasping for air
God, you left me craving release, not sin
Couldn’t you carve out this ache from within?

No damn girl’s ever getting my feelings again
Torn and tested—I’ve had my bitter end
Your monster roams free—this is my cry
A single chance for peace before I die

Oh God, if you’re listening, tear this hole apart
Replace it with stone so I’ll never restart
Never again will I bow, never again will I bend
I’ll walk on alone, no more hearts to mend

No damn girl’s ever getting my soul again
I stand alone—ripped from Eden
Let me be cold as steel, no breath of flame
‘Cause love, love… just leaves me the same

Never… never… never, I swear
An empty shell is easier to bear

Theif Of My Rib

Dank Stankum, at the forefront of musical innovation, is revolutionizing the way music is created both now and in the future. As a creative writer-producer, his influence spans across video and music production, mastering a diverse spectrum of genres with an unwavering passion and a unique flair. His approach to music production blends cutting-edge technology with timeless storytelling, setting new benchmarks in the industry.

In today's rapidly evolving music scene, Dank is pioneering methods that integrate immersive audio technologies and interactive platforms, crafting experiences that transcend traditional listening. His forward-thinking strategies involve diving deep into the fusion of digital and analog techniques, ensuring his creations resonate with audiences on a global scale. Dank's studio has become a hub of innovation, where virtual reality concerts and holographic performances are becoming the norm, offering glimpses into the future of live music.

Looking ahead, Dank envisions a world where music creation is further democratized, allowing artists from every corner of the globe to collaborate in real-time, without the barriers of distance or language. He is deeply involved in developing platforms that enable this seamless integration, fostering a global community of creators who can share, innovate, and produce music that reflects a mosaic of cultures and influences.

Dank's trailblazing work is setting the stage for a new era of music production, where the focus is on expanding the creative potential of artists through innovative sound design, novel rhythms, and unique collaborations. This approach is crafting a future where music is more personalized, accessible, and expressive than ever before.

Beyond his technical contributions, Dank is a visionary advocating for the role of music as a catalyst for change, inspiring a movement towards more sustainable practices within the industry. From eco-friendly tours to digital concerts that reduce carbon footprints, he is at the forefront of creating a more responsible music ecosystem.

In essence, Dank Stankum is not just creating music for the future; he is redefining the entire landscape of music production and consumption. His pioneering efforts are carving paths for upcoming generations, ensuring that the future of music is vibrant, inclusive, and boundlessly creative.

Xak Stahl: Sonic Alchemist and Storyteller Extraordinaire

Xak Stahl is a boundary-pushing artist who transforms life's complexities into captivating musical narratives. His unique sound—a fusion of indie folk, electronic, and alternative influences—creates an immersive experience that resonates with the soul. Each composition is a journey, inviting listeners to explore the depths of human emotion and the heights of musical innovation.

Introducing Zoé Le Fleur: The Voice of Enchantment

Elevating Xak's sonic landscapes is the mesmerizing Zoé Le Fleur. Her voice, a perfect blend of ethereal lightness and raw power, brings an extra dimension to tracks like "Ce qui est juste" and "Heartbeat High." Zoé's performances transform these songs into anthems of the heart, her dynamic range perfectly complementing Xak's intricate compositions.

From Personal Struggle to Universal Resonance

Xak's musical journey is one of transformation and resilience. Early works like 'Neon Dreams' and 'Rising Through the Darkness' showcase his gift for turning personal challenges into universal themes. His latest opus, 'Major Arcana,' is a bold exploration of life's archetypes, with each track inspired by a Tarot card, beginning with the adventurous spirit of 'The Fool.'

A Multifaceted Artistic Vision

Beyond music, Xak is a visual artist and storyteller, weaving rich narratives across multiple mediums. This interdisciplinary approach infuses his music with a depth and complexity that invites repeated listening and deeper exploration.

Join Xak Stahl on a sonic odyssey that challenges perceptions, touches hearts, and celebrates the transformative power of art. Each track is not just a song, but a world waiting to be discovered.

Marol Records is owned and operated by Mårten Olofsson. All music published here, including works by Aetherfall Descents, GRAVESYNC, Niall Veyric, Daven Silaas, Vortex Syndicate, Marol, and Zandra Silaas, is © Marol Records and is fully owned by the label.

	We are a small, independent label, but we do everything we can to engage with our fans, respond to comments, and show our appreciation for every like, share, and message we receive. Your support means the world to us and keeps us inspired to create more music.

	Our music is currently distributed via SoundCloud, with a goal to expand to major streaming platforms like Spotify, YouTube, Tidal, and creative music apps such as Snapchat, TikTok, and Facebook’s Creator Music.

	As we close out this year, we want to thank you all for your incredible support in 2024. We wish you all the best for 2025 and look forward to sharing more music with you in the year ahead!

	For collaborations or business inquiries, please contact marten_olofsson@hotmail.com. Follow us on Facebook for updates on new releases and projects.

Home of These Guitars Say Sorry, Jeremias Langsämmer, Laxá, Siegfried Siegfried Jünger, The Dark Messiahs.
Singer Songwriter | Post Rock | Classical |  Ambient | Dark Jazz |  

Support my work at https://www.patreon.com/tgss from $1 month. Thanks for your support.

Purchase my music on Bandcamp https://theseguitarssaysorry.bandcamp.com/

New tracks tagged #EmotionalFolk