Ivory Lake’s latest release, Reckless Enough To Be Free, is a soul-stirring indie pop anthem that strikes deep into the heart of every dreamer out there. This song isn’t just a ballad, it’s a reflection on life’s missed opportunities and the courage it takes to reach for more than what you’ve got. The raw emotion in the lyrics is beautifully paired with haunting melodies, creating a sound that stays with you long after the music fades.
Ivory Lake, the brainchild of English multi-instrumentalist Joshua Watts, brings together an irresistible blend of classic songwriting and deeply personal storytelling. Rooted in alt-pop with a signature twist of melancholic, nihilistic lyricism, Ivory Lake doesn’t shy away from big topics like depression, addiction, and the suffocating grip of modern tech. And yet, through it all, there’s a shimmer of hope, a chase for something greater.
With lines like “up the luck, dumb as fuck, always wanted to feel like more than what I was”, the chorus cuts like a blade, sharp and honest, reflecting that universal desire to break free from life’s constraints. It’s as if Josh, with his years of world-traveling experience. From touring as a drummer with Geoff Tate to finding solace in the bars and clubs of Spain; lays bare his personal journey, inviting listeners to confront their own.
Though the lyrics may seem dark, the track never loses its energy. The sound is upbeat, keeping you hooked as the themes of self-reflection and disillusionment swirl around you. Ivory Lake’s seamless fusion of genres, influenced by the likes of Father John Misty and Tame Impala, is a testament to Josh’s musical prowess. He’s been creating music since the age of 11, and it absolutely shows through his vulnerable and unique sound.
In Reckless Enough To Be Free, you can feel the clash between dreaming big and fearing failure. Ivory Lake captures this tension perfectly, making it clear that freedom isn’t for the faint-hearted, it’s for those reckless enough to fearlessly dare!
