Indie-folk singer-songwriter Mcclendon released his debut solo EP Room 33 on September 18. The EP includes four previously released tracks and two new songs.
The project outlines a period in the artist’s life that transformed him inside and out. “Room 33 is a set of 6 songs written in a period of time of major life shifts that occurred in the last 7 or 8 months of my life,” Mcclendon said. “A period of definite change and reflection in all areas: psyche, religious, love, self-identity.”
The new songs included in the release are “You & I” and “Room 33.” Both tracks effortlessly complement the remaining EP, with a soft, warm, melancholy essence. The former band member is no stranger to taking risks that stray from the typical sounds expected of a singer-songwriter.
Room 33 was entirely written and produced by Mcclendon. The choice to work completely alone was a double-edged sword, he said. The freedom to write, re-write, and discover new production ideas allowed the artist to grow, but put pressure on his mind to make the perfectly right choice for every decision. “I kept feeling like I might have struck gold one minute, then second guess myself until I drop it back in the river,” Mcclendon said.
“I really just wanted to solidify this certain piece of time,” Mcclendon said. “Maybe as a baseline for my own memory, so I won’t forget. Maybe as a warning to my future self.”
After tireless days and nights, Room 33 in its current state was born. Filled with sad lyrics for a rainy day and mystical vocal layerings, Room 33 is a solid new beginning for Mcclendon as a solo artist. Fans can check out Mcclendon’s music on Spotify here and download Room 33 wherever they find music.
STREAM ‘ROOM 33’
Room 33 is available on all major streaming platforms.
About Mcclendon
Mcclendon plunges into the indie scene with a fresh perspective while making new use of traditional techniques. With a sound reminiscent of Bon Iver and Ben Howard, he transforms the way music complements words and messages.
Growing up in Oklahoma allowed Mcclendon to flourish through acoustic, country, and folk music. As he matured in a band with his brothers, his passion for vocal layering, electric sounds, and taking risks through music became apparent.
He started playing music at the age of 9 alongside his three older brothers. After performing around the country for over a decade, Mcclendon decided to branch out for his own sound. “I knew early on that there was no going back for me, regardless if anyone cares about what I make,” Mcclendon said. “It’s something I need to do.”
Writing and producing his own music has always been top priority for this independent artist. He’s drawn to write honest thoughts about concepts he personally connects with. Self-producing simply came as a need for survival as a creator. Finding solutions out of desperation has been a recurring theme in Mcclendon’s musical discovery. This scrappy nature allows him to take risks that would otherwise be overlooked.
Every artist draws from life experiences to create meaningful music, but Mcclendon hones in on observing and questioning himself and the surrounding world. This young creative pulls inspiration from conversations with himself. “I just want to create what feels honest. Something that isn’t afraid of the moment,” Mcclendon said.