“The Way Down” by Matt C. White is a riveting rock song with a psychedelic atmosphere and classic rock instrumentation that you just can’t turn away from. White, a multi-faceted musician based in Brooklyn, builds a true sonic journey with this track. Though he draws on typical elements of garage and classic rock, he is not afraid to experiment with other genres and instruments to create something that is completely unique to him. This single (as well as his upcoming album) was performed, recorded, and mixed by White, and his hands-on approach to his music is apparent in each thoughtful layer of the arrangement.
A big electric guitar whine opens the song as chaotic drum fills ripple through your ears. Grungy guitars begin to build the soundscape, as well as your anticipation, as the beat locks in and fuzzy sonic textures drift across the arrangement. Catchy instrumental riffs are constantly dancing through the song, often playing melodies that walk down to mirror the title of the track. The opening line sings “I got a feeling I’m on the way down,” and the vocal melody often walks down in tandem with the instrumentals. All of these little details help craft an enveloping song that pulls you down with the narrator.
The sparse verse at the beginning of the track contrasts with the full, dense chorus in such a satisfying way. The bareness of the verse lets you focus in on the lyrics and the gritty vocal, then the huge chorus ups the energy with its crashing high hats and powerfully strummed guitars.
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