“The Trunk” is a personal, impactful rocker from Noble Hops, a reflective new single whose release was aptly aligned with Veterans Day. Utah Burgess’ vivid narrative-driven songwriting consumes throughout — exuding a gritty, working-class perspective that explores the generational weight of war as a son uncovers the lasting impact of his father’s Vietnam experience.
“The foreign policy of the United States has wreaked havoc on the lives of so many people — not only abroad, but right here at home,” says Burgess. “Addiction. Homelessness. Twenty-two veterans a day, they say, are taking their lives as they try to cope with what they’ve experienced. In no way am I suggesting this is every veteran’s plight, but it’s unacceptable. ‘The Trunk’ may be set in the Vietnam era, but sadly, the story hasn’t changed much since.”
A brisk bass crawl quickly drives into bursts of warming guitar distortion, showing a charismatic and climactic appeal as the vocals emerge. A captivating narration shows within, character-driven and full of heart in retracing “it wasn’t the life he thought it would be” — in the context of a young man who was drafted to Vietnam out of school, returned with damage both physical and mental, and endured a life of challenges thereafter. The father’s living experience, much like many others of his time, shows someone taken hold by external forces beyond their control and the impact lingering throughout the rest of his life.
Opening the trunk prompts concerns of mortality, though also a desire to seize the day — and make the life you want. “As I close the lid, on the trunk I found, hidden in my father’s room,” the vocals continue. “I was haunted by the feeling that my own time would come soon.” Further aspirations — to live a good life and “take care of my family” — proves impactful, set within a rousing rock production. “The Trunk” consumes in its cathartic sense of betterment, showcasing how the past of others can influence those in present day to live a fulfilling life.
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We discovered this release via MusoSoup.
