Straight To Your Heart – Ashton Irwin
★★★★☆
After announcing a new project on May 23, Ashton Irwin released “Straight To Your Heart” as the first single on his upcoming album BLOOD ON THE DRUMS. The new single is the precursor to side one of the album: The Thorns, which is set to release on June 12 before the complete release on July 17.
The new song accompanies a music video featuring Irwin showing off his newfound motorcycle license and archery skills. According to the 5 Seconds of Summer drummer and solo singer, these new skills are the product of an accomplish-by-30 list. However, it seems like the prospect of turning 30 does not deter Irwin, but pushes him beyond his comfort zone to create excitable memories. As he releases more and more of his new project, perhaps listeners will get a glimpse into what other skills have been checked off of the singer’s accomplishment list.
In recent Instagram posts, Irwin expresses his gratitude for his position in the musical world, and the people joining his journey and listening along. The accomplishments he shares are a product, if not an enhancement, to the journey Irwin extends to his audience. This new single expresses his appreciation and love through undeniably yearning lyrics and memorable, if not nostalgic, drumming.
Irwin belts in his lyrics, “Spin me ’round the room / Oh, how could I forget? / You kill my loneliness / If I’m not with you I’m better off dead.” The lyrics pursue a bittersweet connection, perhaps to see if the invisible tether remains. Regardless of what is left of the prior bond, Irwin aims for good graces as he belts his way into your heart.
Although these lyrics are bittersweet romantically, they testify to Irwin’s capabilities and confidence as a solo musician.
From his first solo project in 2020 Superbloom, it is clear that Ashton’s gratitude projects his artistic style to grow in accompaniment to what life throws at him. Where Superbloom was contemplative and introspective, BLOOD ON THE DRUMS looks toward the open road that life has to offer.
“Straight To Your Heart” is just the beginning of what will be an impeccable journey on Ashton Irwin’s new album. Ashton will host a celebration of his new album with a one-evening show at The Belasco in Los Angeles on July 18 following the album’s complete release on July 17. Tickets will be made available on June 7 at 10 a.m. PT.
Presave BLOOD ON THE DRUMS here. Full album release on July 17th, 2024.