Embark on a journey of introspection and gratitude with One Last Job’s latest album, *Been Here Ever Since*. As the fifth installment in their discography, this album represents a culmination of a unique creative process, resulting in a collection of songs that defy easy categorization.
In the preface to *Been Here Ever Since*, lead artist Travis Klein reflects on the complexity of summarizing an album born from an intricate process of intellectual development and experimentation. The album serves as a testament to the journey of creative exploration, embracing themes that find their true resonance in music rather than prose. Klein highlights the limitations of expressing certain ideas outside the realm of song, emphasizing the elusive nature of themes that music captures more vividly than words.
Though the project began in 2021 with collaborator Will Seamans, *Been Here Ever Since* stands as a solo effort from Travis Klein. The album weaves together influences from an array of artists, including The Mountain Goats, AJJ, Modern Baseball, Death Cab for Cutie, Iron and Wine, Bright Eyes, Ramshackle Glory, and Phoebe Bridgers. These influences create a rich sonic tapestry that defies easy classification, contributing to the album’s unique and eclectic sound.
At its core, *Been Here Ever Since* is an exploration of gratitude and the acceptance of one’s life path. The album delves into the fear of surrendering to predetermined courses, exploring the assumptions and fears that shape our journey. Through its lyric-driven storytelling, the album traverses a narrative arc that moves from uncertainty to a renewed perspective of self-discovery and acceptance.
Recorded entirely in Travis Klein’s living room in Austin, TX, the album captures the intimate and personal nature of the artist’s creative process. The mixing and mastering, expertly handled by Michael Briggs in Denton, TX, contribute to the album’s cohesive and melodic ethos. The production process, marked by Klein’s frequent work-related travel, was a testament to his dedication. Despite the challenges of jet lag and the constraints of a nomadic lifestyle, Klein devoted his Saturdays to recording, editing, and tweaking the album in various hotels and Airbnbs.
The ethos of *Been Here Ever Since* centers around gratitude, offering a cohesive storytelling experience that reaches new depths compared to One Last Job’s previous release, *Brittle Grins*. The use of vocal layering enhances the melodies, immersing the listener in an auditory experience that encapsulates the journey of self-discovery and acceptance.
As you delve into the sonic realms of *Been Here Ever Since*, let Travis Klein’s reminder echo through the melodies—an invitation to remember, reflect, and embrace the gratitude woven into the heart of One Last Job’s musical journey. This album is not just a collection of songs; it is a heartfelt exploration of the paths we walk and the acceptance we find along the way. Click [here](#) to listen to *Been Here Ever Since* and experience the depth and introspection of One Last Job’s latest work.