“Rain Guitar”: Sarantos Delivers an Anthem for Outsiders and Dreamers with His 21st Album
Release Date: November 15, 2024
Label: MTS Records (Virgin/Universal Distribution)
Chicago’s beloved indie polymath Sarantos returns with “Rain Guitar,” his 21st album, an exploration of love, loss, resilience, and self-discovery. Known for his prolific DIY ethic and “proud nerd” identity, Sarantos has crafted a career that defies convention, channeling an earnest, genre-blending sound that’s equal parts ’80s nostalgia and modern pop. If his track record of 270+ songs and 11 books is any indication, “Rain Guitar” promises yet another soulful entry into his catalog, one that resonates with outsiders and dreamers alike.
Album Overview
Sarantos’ unique sonic blend of pop-rock, synth elements, and introspective lyrics thrives on “Rain Guitar,” giving a voice to those who feel misunderstood or sidelined. His lyrics dive into struggles and self-acceptance, but always with an open-hearted sincerity that transforms vulnerability into strength. The album’s twelve tracks carry familiar motifs in his work—personal growth, emotional depth, and facing life’s storms head-on—but he also plays with themes like youthful disillusionment and romantic idealism, capturing his characteristic sense of resilience with a twist of whimsy.
Track Highlights
“Rain Guitar”
The title track is a tender, mid-tempo anthem that brings in a steady guitar line symbolizing stability in love. With lines like “You’re my Rain Guitar, steady and faithful,” Sarantos conveys the comfort and reassurance of a partner who remains constant through life’s turbulence. The track’s warm, layered production and heartfelt lyrics make it one of the album’s standout pieces, embodying the emotional core of “Rain Guitar.”
“14”
A raw, nostalgic ode to adolescence, “14” captures the angst and complexity of teenage life. Sarantos’ lyrical style here—direct, honest, and a little wry—seems built to resonate with a generation familiar with mental health struggles and social pressures. The song’s chorus, “You’re 14, the world is big n’ mean,” reflects an understanding of teenage pain with a twist of compassion. By pulling from universal feelings of uncertainty and growth, Sarantos creates an emotional anchor that grounds “Rain Guitar.”
“NEVER Trust A Happy Song”
True to its title, this track is a cautionary tale, encouraging listeners to view life with realism. Sarantos weaves his signature vulnerability with a touch of irony, exploring the gap between idealism and lived experience. Its driving beat and catchy, almost sardonic hook provide an energetic contrast to the introspective ballads on the album.
“Starting Over”
With a message of resilience and rebirth, “Starting Over” embodies the essence of Sarantos’ music: it’s hopeful, grounded, and deeply empathetic. Lines like “Starting over doesn’t mean life is through” underline his message of persistence. The song’s uplifting melody and earnest delivery offer a buoyant moment within the album’s more reflective tracks, making it one of the album’s most hopeful and memorable moments.
Reception & Critical Response
Long celebrated in independent circles, Sarantos’ earnest approach has resonated globally, achieving chart-topping status in places like Iceland, South Africa, and the UK. Fans and critics alike will find *Rain Guitar* a continuation of his unfiltered, accessible style. With his focus on community and inclusivity, Sarantos extends his reach through *The Songwriters Show*, and this album feels like an extension of that mission. The album has garnered early praise for its unvarnished look at life’s emotional highs and lows, with critics pointing to the relatability of “14” and the cathartic pull of “NEVER Trust A Happy Song.”
In Summary
“Rain Guitar” reinforces Sarantos’ place in the indie music sphere, giving listeners another window into his life-affirming worldview. Its lyrics brim with empathy and understanding, offering solace to listeners who might feel out of place. While some may find his DIY production style unpolished, it’s precisely this raw, authentic approach that makes Sarantos a voice for the underdog. For fans new and old, “Rain Guitar” is a reflective, bittersweet journey—perfect for a rainy day spent in introspection.
