Laney Jones Sheds Hope with her New Single, “Cheers to the Future”
Laney Jones and The Spirits are endlessly cool. The Nashville-based band knows how to make an impactful song, and their most recently released “Cheers to the Future” proves just that. The group pushes the limits of americana far and wide with unrestrained guitar riffs, swelling rhythms, and an intimate, wailing vocal delivery, giving the southern-stemmed songs a noisy twist.
“Cheers to the Future” is a meaningful example of their approach, maintaining a signature sound while remaining dynamic enough to feel fresh. In the song, they explore themes of both optimism and uncertainty in a way that feels relatable. These themes are accentuated by their instrumental choices.
A xylophone glimmers throughout the track. This choice, while unexpected, feels perfectly placed and underscores the lyrics’ uplifting tone. The instrument’s sparkling nature feels hopeful, encouraging listeners not to lose hope in their futures. Vocalist Laney Jones reminds them, “Cheers to the future / Whatever will be will be.”
This track also plays with the anxiety of the unknown future. Grungy, rumbling guitars are accompanied by big, erratic drums, creating a tense, unsettled mood. In the middle of the song, a guitar solo cuts Jones off mid-chorus as she sings “whatever will be will be.” The guitar solo was recorded and then reversed, causing a wavering, layered effect that symbolizes uncertainty. The break feels intentionally unstable. By cutting Jones off mid-chorus, she leaves an otherwise hopeful statement unresolved. We continue to feel unsure as Jones starts to sing, “Everything’s changing, nothing remains,” and the song quiets.
However, the instrumentals eventually come crashing back in as she sings “Cheers to the future / Whatever will be will be.” We are reminded that, though the future is uncertain, the layered, dynamic instrumentals reinforce the song’s message of acceptance and resilience, encouraging us to let it ride out.
In uncertain times, stream “Cheers to the Future” for a little bit of in-your-face optimism!
