Red Arrow Highway
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In this episode of As The Story Grows, host Brian Patton welcomes Nate and Justin from Red Arrow Highway to discuss their new album, Be Someone Better, released on Self-Aware Records. The conversation traces the band’s origins during the COVID-19 lockdowns, when Justin began composing music in isolation and sent demos to Nate, sparking a collaborative process that defied traditional band dynamics. They describe their unique workflow—writing remotely using digital tools, then assembling a live band of six members to bring the songs to life. The album blends adult punk, late 90s Midwest emo, and grunge influences, marked by big choruses, emotional depth, and a focus on lyrical honesty around mental health, parenting, and personal growth. The title 'Be Someone Better' emerges as a personal mantra and a call to empathy and self-improvement. The band reflects on the challenges of balancing music with adult responsibilities—jobs, families, and schedules—while remaining committed to their creative outlet. Despite logistical hurdles, they express excitement about touring and the profound validation of having their music released on vinyl by a label that believes in their vision.
Remote collaboration using digital tools (Logic, Google Drive) enables efficient, creative songwriting without physical band meetings.
Music serves as essential emotional and psychological outlet—especially during isolation and life transitions.
The album Be Someone Better is a form of 'free therapy,' addressing mental health, parenting, and the struggle to be a better version of oneself.
The band’s sound blends adult punk, Midwest emo, and grunge, prioritizing big choruses and emotional dynamics over technical complexity.
The vinyl release is a major milestone, representing external validation and the dream of sharing music with others.
Introduction to Red Arrow Highway
Brian Patton introduces Nate and Justin from Red Arrow Highway and previews their new album, Be Someone Better, setting the tone for a conversation about music, identity, and creative evolution during the pandemic.
The Birth of Red Arrow Highway in Isolation
Justin recounts how the band began during lockdowns, writing music alone at home and sending MIDI demos to Nate, who responded with vocals and collaboration, creating a new model for band formation.
From Solo Projects to a Full Band
The duo expanded into a six-member band with the help of friends, including bassist Dave, who helped decode complex arrangements. The band learned songs live, adapting them with collective input.
The Sound and Aesthetic of Be Someone Better
Nate and Justin describe their musical style as 'adult punk' and '90s Midwest emo,' emphasizing emotional dynamics, big choruses, and lyrical honesty over technical complexity.
Lyrical Themes: Mental Health, Parenting, and Growth
“You could start now. Be someone better.”
“I feel like if you don't feel like a failure, you're doing something wrong.”
“Music's just been there since I was 15 years old. And I just can't imagine life without it.”
“You could start now. Be someone better.”
Host
Guests
Red Arrow Highway
other
Be Someone Better
media
Justin
person
Nate
person
Brian Patton
person
Dave
person
Michigan
place
Grand Rapids
place
Will Beasley
person
Monkey Robot War
other
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