One of my favorite things to do in the warmer months is have picnic dates with my friends. Whether we’re reading, doing homework, tanning or just snacking and enjoying each other’s company, these little moments always feel special.
Usually, one of us brings a speaker for some spring-coded tunes, and after listening to The Walters’ new album, I knew their songs were making the playlist.
Released this past Friday, “Good Company” marks the band’s first full-length album. Though active since 2013, The Walters have primarily thrived on EPs and singles.
“Ten years in the making. We can’t believe it’s finally here, and we’re so thankful you’ve been with us every step of the way,” the band shared on X. “12 songs that mean the world to us, now out in the world for you.”
The alternative indie group — made up of lead singer Luke Olson, guitarist Walter Kosner, bassist Danny Wells and drummer Charlie Ekhaus — had mainstream success in 2020 when their 2014 song “I Love You So” blew up on TikTok. I’ve been a fan ever since.
The album opens with “Good Company,” a dreamy introduction that sets the tone. “You’ll be alone, but you’re in good company,” Olson sings, acknowledging that while change is inevitable and scary, it can also be a positive experience.
“Tell Me” follows, delivering The Walters’ signature sound by bordering on folk and complete with backing vocals, a pattern of deceptive cadence and pleading lyrics: “When you’re gone for a while / I think you’re leaving, leaving.”
“Life On The Line” is an upbeat and sweet song about diving into love despite the fear: “If I’m going, I’m going in blind / With my life on the line.” The charming, breezy melody makes it an instant favorite.
“Sunset Beagle” solidified my love for this album as a springtime soundtrack. The twangy, slow guitar and soothing vocals make for a gorgeous, simple soundscape.
Track five, “Broken Hearts and Memories,” is the first truly melancholic moment. Following a woman named Casey, it wrestles with uncertainty: “Am I running out of time? / I’m so afraid to make a mess.” Though the instrumentals remain upbeat, the lyrics are a stark contrast.
“Breakdown” continues this sound, with Olson confessing, “Lately I’m feeling overwhelmed in my own skin.” The lively instrumental juxtaposes the haunting lyrics: “Is it too late to tell you that I’ve spread myself so thin?”
“TV” is my personal favorite. A groovy bassline, almost tropical melody and vulnerable lyrics create something truly special. “Why be afraid of life / When there’s so much more waiting ’round the corner?” the song asks, before the chorus hits: “So stay a while, we’ve reached the end / And once we leave we can’t come back again.” It’s bittersweet and addicting.
While “Good Ole Years” doesn’t quite hit on the same level as the rest — its lyrics feel too literal — “Papi Belle’s Canyon” and “Mister Romance” take a nostalgic turn. The former leans into country-folk with an old-radio charm, while the latter is a beautiful ballad reminiscent of The Temptations and Four Tops. With a relaxing, beachy backtrack and delicate vocals, it is easy to get lost in enchantment.
The final two tracks, “Walk Away” and “Change,” feel like thematic recaps of the album as they reflect on the past, feeling stuck and, of course, change. While not the strongest closers, they’re still sweet and replayable.
For a debut album, “Good Company” is pleasantly tender and it’s safe to say it’ll be playing at my next picnic.
4/5 stars
ajones11@ramapo.edu
Featured photo courtesy of @thewalters, X
