NoraStone is a hard rock band from Newburgh, NY and founded in 2011. Their new album, Forever Endeavor came out March 29th and we asked the band to tell us about each track. Check out their commentary on the album below.

Mary Poppins Has A Death Wish - - So this was one of the first songs we wrote for the new record. It’s where we first really started to experiment more with the dynamics and layering instrumentals. From the start we knew it would be the first track to kick off the record, it’s vibe and flow perfectly sets the tone. It’s a tune about being able to recognize and set aside what’s holding you back, while looking forward to the future. It’s got heart and heat and it’s the perfect way to open up “Forever Endeavor” 

Grace Anatomy - - This is a track that absolutely breaks away from what our comfort zone was. It has a cool alternative-indie vibe with these sonic buzz tones and feel, it was a cool path to venture down. The songs message really just centers on when you find that special someone, and being able to turn down all the stress and noise that can surround you and staying focused on what matters.  

Foreign, The Mourning - - This was a jam that Ryan brought to the group and it fully embodies that whole free flowing rock vibe. Straightforward crunching guitars and bass, with a driving thumping drumbeat. It just gets the head boppin’. The song talks about having to walk your own plank in a way, taking your own personal baggage and trying not to be crushed under it. This is a tune that always stays in our live set because it bumps.  

Harder To Pretend - - HTP was one of the first tracks that Rob sent to us for the new album. It kind of set the pace and tonal shift we were seeking this time around. We really allowed more space and breath in the structure and between the notes, and it birthed this melancholy aura that really strikes. The song is about coming to the realization that sometimes people/friends/relationships can change, and accepting that fact, and either be willing to move on or stay the course. 

Propane And Propane Accessories - - There are certain tracks that catch you right in the creative feels and just write themselves, Propane is a perfect example of that. This is another track that Ryan popped off to us, and I think the vocals were done within the first 20 minutes. The structure really build and swells in all the right places and it’s dripping with aggressive post-modern/Rock moods. The track speaks about complications and exchanges that can occur within a partnership/relationship. That first breath of fresh air you take when you place yourself outside of the conflict and look back in on it. 

Dads In Heat (Gotta Skeet-Skeet) - - So this track really evolved from that main riff that Rob would play at our rehearsals, and transformed into this raw rock tune. We approached this one with the mindset to have everything be this really adrenaline pumping, octane type of rock’n’roll banger. That theme stays intact even up to the slow, sludgy, almost southern rock grinding bridge. This lyrically was inspired by an epic wild outing we had with the band and some close friends. Let’s just say that we learned even in your 30’s, the party and insanity can still be tapped into, any further details of that night will stop here :)

Modern Drama For An Old-Time Romance - - The song is about a close friend of ours, and this tumultuous, substance infused, toxic relationship they were in. It’s hard to see stuff like that from the outside and knowing that no matter what you do or say, they ultimately will have to be the one to get themselves out. Instrumentally we channelled these haunting ambient tones and wanted to really make sure the gravity of the song was felt. We laid these deep weeping synth accents in the background as well to add texture. The final cherry on top though was Chris’ idea to turn the opening guitar line into music-box chimes, with the radio static sitting behind it. It’s such a vulnerable and honest song, and we fell in love with how it came out. 

The One Where They Were On A Break - - We wrote this track very much in the vein of a radio rock sing-along type. This one is about just trusting in yourself and your potential, and not being afraid to start anew. Addressing whatever vices you’ve had or still have, knowing your worth and what you deserve. We really love the way the song evolves as it rides on. You start with this super inviting modern rock first half, and then all of a sudden the curtain drops and your smack in the middle of this filthy breakdown. It’s a rollercoaster that takes you to both sides of the spectrum.

Graveside Therapy - - So this one is actually interesting. We had all the tracks for the studio locked in, except one. We had a couple ideas what the 10th track could be, but couldn’t really decide. Well, Ryan has his collection of old demos/ideas he’s recorded and keeps them in his playlist. He shot this one out and we instantly fell in love with it. The song comes attached with such a deep meaning behind it . At the time Chris was going through a tough loss, and this song lyrically really just grew out of that space. It’s a song anyone who has ever lost anyone close to them, whether it be drugs, suicide, illness, etc., can really gravitate to and hopefully find some solace in.

Damn Millennials - - Rob had sent this one out right when we were about 70% through the record and before vocals were even done we all knew we wanted it to be the closing track on the record. It has such a eerie and pounding vibe, with definition and great dynamics. Damn Millennials is honestly almost like an autobiography, it surfaces everything this whole process was to us leading up to the studio. It’s another great example of a track where we really wanted to lean into implementing new style and structure not previously in our catalogue or repertoire. It’s one that displays our growth and maturity, and holds a really special place for us.