Bitter Calm is a band from Birmingham, AL. They make music that one would call “sad,” but much like the torrential rains that punctuate their lives, it’s a different kind of sad— less like a breakup at the dinner table and more like a breakup in the atmosphere. Deeply, loudly, profoundly sad.
With the smoothness of soul and the twang of country, Bitter Calm creates an unforgettable fusion track with “Salt.” The band amalgamates different musical worlds to create a dynamic arrangement as they pen sentimental lyrics lined with vivid imagery. So easily do the slow-burning vocals creep out of your speakers as heartfelt strings add a lush touch to the heartfelt tune. Bitter Calm’s unique lineup of musicians can evoke folk storytelling and set it to alt-rock style melodies for a unique approach to modern times. “Salt” features soaring melodies from a violin that are greeted with equally soft vocals as Bitter Calm carves a lane all to their own. d.”
“‘Salt’ brings up a lot of complicated feelings for me, but I think that’s what makes it all the more special to us,” explains songwriter Michael Harp. “It paints death not as an exit, but a transformation, a return. We filmed the video on the way to a show we played in my hometown of Gadsden, AL. I wanted to show people home in all of its beauty and all of its ugliness. It hurts to go home. It hurts to be away. Some things are worth hurting for.”
