“California Callin’ is an anthem of personal growth, a sonic exploration of finding one’s truth amidst the chaos of modern life. With this track, Billy Hunt continues to push boundaries, evolving as both a musician and a storyteller.”

Billy Hunt’s new single ‘California Callin’’ is a bold step forward in his musical journey – a cinematic indie-rock anthem that encapsulates the sun-drenched nostalgia of the West Coast while delving into the darker, more introspective corners of the musician’s psyche. Known for his rich, velvety vocals and soulful storytelling, Hunt’s latest release offers a seamless blend of bright, infectious energy with poignant lyrical depth, making it an instant standout in his growing catalogue.

From the opening notes, ‘California Callin’’ radiates a sense of warmth and spaciousness, evoking the mystique of the California dream. It’s a track that could easily soundtrack a hazy road trip down the Pacific Coast Highway, but beneath its sunny veneer lies a sharp introspection. Hunt masterfully weaves the duality of the song – its upbeat, driving rhythm contrasting against the darker brooding lyrics that explore the dangers of losing oneself in the trappings of fame and the illusion of the rock ‘n’ roll dream. A subtle homage to Jim Morrison, one of Hunt’s greatest influences, the song’s opening lyric “Don’t you know they all go to Paris to die?” immediately sets the tone for this meditative yet urgent piece of songwriting.

As a storyteller, Billy Hunt has always had a knack for capturing vulnerability, and in ‘California Callin’’, his voice carries that same weight of experience, effortlessly drawing listeners into his world. The track reflects his ability to seamlessly navigate love, loss, and the death of the ego – timeless themes that resonate deeply across cultures. It’s a song that invites reflection, yet compels you to move, thanks to its infectious chorus and driving rhythm.

Produced and mixed by Steve Maclachlan at Wilde Bloom Studios, ‘California Callin’’ benefits from a polished yet organic sound that gives it a cinematic, expansive quality. The layers of guitars and pulsating drums work together to create a lush backdrop for Hunt’s commanding vocals, elevating the track into something larger-than-life. 

While Hunt’s roots in the UK music scene are firmly established – his name rising with his earlier releases like ‘No Occupation’, which climbed the Australian charts – ‘California Callin’’ shows a new side to his artistry. It’s a sound that is both more expansive and more intimate, one that carries with it the weight of his experiences while embracing a broad stylistic palette. The song is an anthem of personal growth, a sonic exploration of finding one’s truth amidst the chaos of modern life.

With ‘California Callin’’, Billy Hunt continues to push boundaries, evolving as both a musician and a storyteller. This track not only adds a fresh layer to his sonic identity but also proves that he’s well on his way to becoming a key figure in the indie rock scene. With its infectious energy, heartfelt lyrics, and cinematic scope, ‘California Callin’’ is destined to be a summer anthem for listeners who crave both introspection and escapism in their music.

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Words by Danielle Holian

THE SONGBIRD HQ