Blaine Todd lives in Alameda, a former naval base and island in the San Francisco Bay. His songwriting blends low-rent tragedy with a reverence for nature and rural life. In addition to an obvious outlaw country influence, his music is informed by the melodic guitar playing of Sterling Morrison, Mississippi trance blues, and Norteño music.
“Everyman” is the latest relatable outing from Todd’s twangy creativity, and it is brimming with hints of lo-fi and mesmerizing guitar work. Vibrant rockabilly tempos and warping guitar work juxtapose the low grumble of Todd’s vocals. The contradictions dig a tad bit deeper when you realize the potent and complex poetry of the track is detailing one of life’s simplest truths: You get what’s coming to you. Via the many reasons one would employ the universal “Two ears, one mouth” sentiment, Todd lands on the comforting conclusion that karma shows no mercy, wrapped up in one echoing line that touches the soul; “Every man rides the horse that he deserves.” Todd’s “Everyman” is an alt-country reminder to let the small things go while introducing us to a wise songwriter passionate about stretching folk tropes to new extremes.
“‘Everyman’ is an existential comedy of errors. It’s about perseverance despite the absurd nature of modern life,” explains Tood. “It’s also about the idea that you get out of life what you put in. If everything is perceived as a challenge and affront, then that’s what you’re dealt.”
