Canadian multi-instrumentalist Mark MacDonald – aka Hollow River – has unleashed a storm of pop-punk-rap goodness in the form of his new EP, ‘We’re Going To Be OK’. Dropped out of Berklee College of Music but not out of the game per se, Hollow River infuses his pop-punk-rap fusion with raw authenticity and unapologetic energy spread across this six-track offering.
The six-track EP, as described by Hollow River, takes listeners on a rollercoaster ride through themes of change, loss, and self-reflection. There’s an undeniable attitude of anger coursing through the veins of the record, but it’s a self-aware journey. “The record is a six song EP themed around change, loss, and self reflection,” Hallow River says. “There is an attitude of anger that comes across but for as many fingers as I point there are many more pointed back at myself as I work through dealing with consequence and loneliness.”
The latest single, “Self-Esteem (Everyone’s Leaving)” stands out as a showcase of Hollow River’s unique blend of storytelling and witty dialogue. The track opens with a recording of a message from an old friend. The intro is a recording of a message I got from an old friend who had dreams of being a rapper ever since he was a teenager,” he emphasises. “He took it particularly hard when I started to pursue my music career full time, and even harder when I found success with rap myself. Instead of being happy for me he sent me aggressive messages that kept escalating with anger to the point where I had to cut them off. I had to remind myself that someone who couldn’t be happy about me pursuing my dream wasn’t a real friend and I was better off without them. Musically it’s really fun -like a release after a period of stress with some awesome drums parts!”
Hollow River takes on the role of the one-man powerhouse, self-producing and writing the entire EP. The drums and bass, integral components of the record, were recorded at Power Station Studio with Henry Reinach, adding a professional touch to Hollow River’s DIY ethos. Guitars, vocals, and background vocals found their home in Hollow River’s studio, Pineapple Tree Productions, ensuring an intimate connection between the artist and his creation.
The EP’s soundscape IS mixed together by Mark Aguilar in the mixing studio, while James Zaner added the final touch of finesse through mastering. The musical lineup features LJ Trotta on drums, Maximilian Troppe on bass, and Sophia Margossian on synth, bringing an eclectic mix of talents to the table.
Beyond the music, Hollow River doesn’t just producer music, as from today, he launches his annual Movember campaign, aiming to raise $5000 in support of Men’s Mental Health.
In ‘We’re Going To Be OK,’ Hollow River invites you on a cathartic journey, where punk meets rap, and authenticity reigns supreme.
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