‘Starting Line‘ is a song about emotional fatigue, expertly navigating the painful realization of relationship deterioration. Drawing a clever parallel between the struggles of distance running and the mental weariness of a strained relationship, Bawtree’s lyricism is as sharp as it is vulnerable. The line “feel like I’m always healing, always back to the starting line” carries an aching repetition, mirroring both the mental and emotional toll of a relationship at its breaking point. It’s an astute choice of metaphor, amplifying the frustration of feeling stuck in an endless cycle of attempts at recovery. This track is not just a love song — it’s a reflection of self-doubt and longing. There’s a sense of universal familiarity in Bawtree’s words , offering solace to anyone who’s felt the weight of love’s complexity. His vocals, at once powerful and tender, convey an earnestness that matches the intensity of the song’s theme. The rasp in his voice lends an air of lived-in experience, anchoring his emotional vulnerability in authenticity.
Cover Photo by Emma Halpin
Musically, the track flourishes with a hooky, up-tempo beat that contrasts the lyrical heaviness. The guitar work, clean yet dynamic, bounces between moments of tension and release, reflecting the emotional journey of the song. This balance between light and dark, between the infectious nature of the melody and the painful vulnerability of the lyrics, gives the song a compelling duality, making it both captivating and relatable. Bawtree’s ability to communicate complex emotions through both words and sound is a testament to his potential as a solo artist. ‘Starting Line‘ proves he’s more than ready to step out of the shadows of his previous work with South by Zero and into a space where he can truly shine on his own.
For a debut release , ‘Starting Line‘ is both striking and memorable. It introduces Matt Bawtree as a talented, emotionally intuitive artist capable of creating music that resonates with listeners on a deep level. As the first step in his solo journey, it leaves us eagerly awaiting what’s to come, knowing that this is only the beginning for a musician whose voice promises to echo far beyond his humble origins.
Words : dylan patrick
