Alec Duckart, the indie musician behind the project Searows, has crafted a captivating musical journey with his second album, 'Death in the Business of Whaling'. This album marks a significant departure from the typical Gen Z confessional songwriting style, instead drawing inspiration from the dark and violent world of the ocean, fish guts, and shipwrecks. Duckart's unique perspective on these themes is what sets him apart, and it's this perspective that has gained him a dedicated following, including opening slots for pop stars like Gracie Abrams and Ethel Cain.
What makes Duckart's music so compelling is his ability to weave together themes of memory, regret, and the inevitability of death in a way that feels both personal and universal. His lyrics, often compared to those of Sufjan Stevens or Arlo Parks, are poetic and introspective, but they also have a broader impact. The use of characters and world-building in his songs adds depth and complexity, making his music feel like a journey through the human experience.
One of the most fascinating aspects of Duckart's music is his connection to Herman Melville's 'Moby-Dick'. Although he hasn't read the book, he was inspired by the maritime themes and the idea of the ocean as a force of nature that is both fascinating and terrifying. This connection adds a layer of depth to his music, and it's a testament to his ability to draw inspiration from a wide range of sources.
However, what many people don't realize is that Duckart's music is not just about the themes he explores, but also about the process of creating it. His shift to a darker, more abstract style of songwriting was influenced by his experiences working at a retirement home, where he formed close relationships with people in the final years of their lives. This experience shaped his perspective on death and aging, and it's this perspective that informs his music.
In my opinion, what makes Duckart's music so compelling is his ability to balance vulnerability and introspection with a broader sense of human experience. His music is not just about the themes he explores, but also about the process of creating it, and the impact it has on his listeners. His music is a testament to the power of art to connect with people on a deep and personal level.
In conclusion, Alec Duckart's 'Death in the Business of Whaling' is a captivating musical journey that explores themes of memory, regret, and the inevitability of death in a way that feels both personal and universal. His ability to balance vulnerability and introspection with a broader sense of human experience makes his music feel like a journey through the human condition, and it's this that makes him such a compelling artist.
