Shiloh, Forever, the musical alter ego of introspective 25-year-old artist Matthew Roers, invites listeners into his dreamlike realm once again with the release of his latest single, “The Man After Dark.” Roers, a self-proclaimed insomniac, finds inspiration in the tranquil, contemplative hours of the night, infusing his music with laid-back grooves, serene instrumentation, and heartfelt lyrics that resonate with the yearning of the soul.
Roers’ musical journey began in rural Minnesota, where his eclectic taste in music flourished, spanning from old-school organic folk to classic city pop. This diverse musical palette culminates in his unique brand of indie folk rock, which he affectionately calls “sleep rock.” In “The Man After Dark,” Roers delves deeper into this ethereal soundscape, offering listeners a poignant glimpse into his nocturnal musings.
The single is part of a two-song project, accompanied by the intimate track “La Lune,” together forming a 10-minute continuum of angsty, late-night vulnerability. Recorded in the solitude of his small apartment in Dorchester, MA, during a month of nocturnal seclusion, Roers poured his heart and soul into crafting these deeply personal songs. Inspired by a star-filled evening walk in his former hometown outside of Alexandria, MN, “The Man After Dark” explores themes of disconnected love and existential introspection, while “La Lune” serves as a lonely, reminiscent ode to the moon.
Despite the emotional weight of the project, Roers’ creative process was fueled by a sense of urgency and determination. Struggling to process a recent breakup and battling insomnia, he channeled his turbulent emotions into his music, creating a sonic landscape that resonates with raw authenticity. “I was in an almost manic state at the time, and creating the songs was a way to try to process my emotions,” Roers reflects. “I wanted to make something that felt like it was moving in slow motion, because I think that’s what I needed most then: to be able to slow down and breathe.”
Roers’ meticulous attention to detail is evident throughout “The Man After Dark,” with each instrument meticulously crafted to evoke a sense of melancholic beauty. Collaborating with fellow musicians Mike Chapin and Eli Torgerson, Roers brought his vision to life, infusing the project with a depth and richness that belies its minimalist origins.
With the release of “The Man After Dark,” Roers invites listeners to join him on a journey through the quiet, introspective hours of the night. Whether you’re grappling with your own demons or simply seeking solace in the tranquility of the evening, Shiloh, Forever’s latest offering is sure to leave a lasting impression.