Following the popularity of his 2020 radio hit, “Coming Back,” Winnipeg’s Ariel Posen (The Bros. Landreth) returns with this smooth, soulful new single. A snare pops like a smothered balloon to introduce the listener to this gentle song from Posen’s upcoming full-length album, “Headway,” one that pushes the artist firmly into roots-music territory. The expertly self-produced sound is a nice mixture of slide guitar, bass, and that popping percussion, with Ariel’s creamy vocals on top.
“What Are We Doing Here is about what goes on in my head at the beginning stages of a relationship,” says Posen. “While everything is going great, and it feels good, and you’re completely and utterly happy, you can’t help but still question it and wonder if this is something that is going to last forever?”
Songs for this second album were written between worldwide tour dates in 2019, and worked on throughout 2020. One can’t overemphasize how life has changed since during this period. His lyrics for this particular tune ruminate on a romantic relationship, yet in this current global pandemic, could simultaneously represent existential contemplation. The answer to his question differs greatly on your own personal interpretation; are we trying to find the great romance of our lives, or merely hoping to survive? I suppose either way, a positive outlook can be essential.
“Some people can just enjoy being in the moment, and while I find that I have done that, the other side of my brain can’t help but jump the gun so to speak and keep looking ahead,” Ariel adds. “This song is all those thoughts and feelings in one.” Recommended for fans of Maroon 5, Sade, or Canada’s own JUNO Award winners, Jacksoul.
A bit of a Renaissance man, Steve Murphy is a singer-songwriter, author, and journalist based out of London, Ontario. An avid vinyl collector and audiophile, his personal collection of albums is wide ranging and in the thousands, including four released from his band Westminster Park.
