SUSTO elegantly capture this essence of change on their fifth full-length LP, My Entire Life, where classic songwriting and sonic experimentation intertwine to form a masterpiece of storytelling.
Led by frontman and songwriter Justin Osborne, SUSTO delve into seasons of transformation, exploring the physical, emotional, and spiritual shifts that define their lives. The band's follow-up to 2021's brilliant Time In The Sun tells a deeply personal tale, chronicling one of the most intense periods of metamorphosis in Osborne's existence. It’s a profound reflection on pain, beauty, and the inevitable consequences of change. In the ever-revolving cycle of life, each dawn brings the promise of new beginnings, wiping away the tumult of yesterday and offering a fresh start. The genesis of the album can be traced back to a season of profound upheaval in Osborne's life. A divorce, the challenges of rebuilding the band post-pandemic, and the heartache of witnessing loved ones grapple with addiction and mental illness shaped the fabric of the album. Yet, within this crucible of challenges, he discovered new love and gained a heightened perspective, which he masterfully translates into his music.
While navigating through life's tempestuous waters, Justin found solace and purpose in creating with those closest to him. Longtime producer Wolfgang "Wolfy" Zimmerman, SUSTO co-founders Johnny Delaware and Marshall Hudson, and his fiancé and co-writer Caroline Foyle became vital collaborators on the album. Together, they crafted a sonic tapestry that seamlessly weaves rock, folk, and psychedelia, imbued with a vivid country-esque storytelling that feels raw, real, and thoroughly modern. Throughout My Entire Life, Osborne bares his soul, recounting the end of a nearly decade-long relationship and the joy of newfound love and hope. The album's lyrics paint a candid and emotionally charged picture of his personal journey, imbued with wisdom gleaned from life's many experiences.
"SUSTO's narrative has always been confessional, and songwriting is my way of trying to make sense of the chaos - good and bad - around me," reflects Justin. "These songs cover the spectrum of everything that's happened in my life the last few years. There's been a lot of change, which can be painful, but there's also been a lot of joy and hope, along with everything in between. I figure that's what life is."
My Entire Life stands as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of music to convey profound emotions. It’s not only the ultimate realization of SUSTO's artistic vision but also a triumphant tale of an individual rising from the ashes, wiser, and more passionate than ever.