analog by pomegranate

Everywhere I look, there are little traces of people returning to analog. Physical books, the fondness for vinyl records, disposable cameras– they require us to live in a moment, instead of obsessing over its perfection. The song Analog by the indie band, Pomegranate, captures that feeling perfectly– nostalgia beautifully painted all over this track. 

I found Pomegranate recently through a video they’d posted on social media. In less than fifteen seconds, I knew I’d found something special. The alt-rock band out of Nashville is composed of six musicians dedicated to spreading love– largely based in their following of God. Their discography feels like an honest attempt to amend church hurt, and share their religious journey that survives through persistence and honesty. 

Analog, their sophomore single, is a warm reminder to keep in touch with friends, live authentically, and learn earnestly. 

The chorus goes, 

“Feel the noise and hear the color

Dust it off, there’s so much to uncover

We’re all bored, there's no wonder why we’re all

Coming back to analog”

The reason Analog resonates with listeners is its observation, realized. So much of what modern life has to offer us leaves us feeling more disconnected than anything else. The act of returning to analog doesn’t necessarily mean quitting the use of all of your modern technology. Returning to analog is reminding yourself of the importance of experiencing everything with purpose, instead of living for mass consumption. Rediscovering your love for adventure. Getting back into a hobby you loved. Reaching out to friends. Realizing that things worth having have been waiting for us to find them– love, friendship, connection. This song acts as a gentle nudge, and then, a call to action. Make the conscious decision over and over again to slow down, live in moments as much as you can, and experience things deeper. Explore being present! Dabble in it fondly!

photo via pomegranate’s instagram

The production reinforces that invitation to discover presence in every second. It doesn’t feel over polished, instead, it sounds lived in. Even the violin, which might feel like an unnecessary embellishment, finds its place perfectly alongside the guitars, and the swell of the drums opens even more space for the strings to tell their own story. There’s a lot of space to enjoy the instruments telling their story alongside the lyrics. In a way, they speak just as much as voices do. 

My favorite verse goes, 

“Perfection always out of reach

You′re filling up the space between

Forgot I'm man and not machine

The scratches make the song unique

Ooh, I don′t wanna miss You”

As someone who sometimes has a hard time beginning things because I’m unsure of where to start, and intimidated by the pressure of not living up to what I imagine, this verse speaks to me on so many levels. “Filling up the space between” feels like the act of chasing distraction, similar to the way so many feel drawn to the instant gratification that social media thrives off of. “Forgot I’m man and not machine \ The scratches make the song unique” reminds me that I’m not meant to be anybody’s idea of ‘perfect’ on the inside or outside. I am a direct reflection of all the hardship I have endured, all of the people that have come in and out of my life, and all of the decisions I have made for myself. Perfection isn’t to be strived for– happiness is. Openness. Vulnerability. Kindness. Love.

Oftentimes in their videos, the word “You” is capitalized, which makes me think this is another reference to their religious roots. This refrain kind of seems to act as a double entendre, speaking to both God, and to friends. Voicing the desire to be in touch with someone is strength if I’ve ever heard it– especially in relation to one’s religious background, during a time when religion can be so misconstrued and misunderstood. Not to mention, in a time where devotion can be seen as desperation in relationships.

I think in many ways, the members of Pomegranate know this dynamic, and have maybe even lived it. Their lyrics are intentional, and enforce their version of Christian rock, which feels warm and inviting rather than untouchable to certain groups of listeners. It gives vulnerability a safe space to exist, and allows conversation to be had around relationships with God, and one another. I think music that inspires with intention regardless of background and affiliation can be so meaningful for listeners who have been unsure as to whether religion is a safe place for them to exist because of hostile rhetoric. Pomegranate feels genuine in their journey, and open with their hearts– and that, is special in a time like this.

By the time the song ends, I want to hear my closest friends’ voices, admire their faces, brush hands, and hold onto their smiles as long as I can. Pomegranate is creating something special. If they can move me to this, I hope they can move you.

Words by Hailey Dymairie