Sunday morning and I have had a slow start to the day. A blocked plug in the bath meant that I was delayed and missed church, so that was a bit frustrating. I sorted breakfast, picked up my book, The House at Devil’s Neck by Tom Mead, a kind of haunted detective tale – but then I decided to do a review instead.
I settled on the single “Waking Up”, which was released on August 21, 2026, and is out on all platforms now. It follows on from the previous single “Clarity”, which we reviewed here at the end of June (And now has a video that I have included at the end of this piece). This track is the second previously unreleased bonus song from their forthcoming Hindsight: Deluxe Edition album.
Press Release
Creating a unique blend that combines alternative, indie rock with dream pop undertones, “Waking Up” explores the complex journey when one finally decides to confront their self-destructive behaviors and move towards a healthier path. Combined with dreamy guitars, haunting melodies, and crystalline vocals, this lush atmospheric production reflects on recognizing toxic patterns while embracing the liberating journey that comes from healing.
“When working on new music for the Epilogue of our studio album, Hindsight, we took an honest look at ourselves. The truth was, we had a codependent relationship with alcohol. When we finally decided to get out of our own way, everything was so much clearer. ‘Waking Up’ addresses coming to terms with who we were and separating ourselves from comfortable destruction.”
My Review
The single is a reflection on the “demon on my shoulder – don’t know when I’m sober” – and yet, interestingly, that serious and reflective theme sits over a light pop groove. It is lyrically recognising that self-destruction is far from beautiful, but the instrumentation is dreamy and atmospheric, making it the type of song you could easily play in the car as you drive along on a summer’s day.
The drum sound, although sitting behind the rest of the arrangement, is particularly effective, rooting the track and giving it a steady foundation without disturbing that dreamlike quality. The chorus drifts rather than explodes, but it still carries a punch, and that works well with the subject matter. There is something almost deceptive about the track: it is comfortable and easy to listen to on the surface, while underneath it is dealing with some considerably less comfortable truths.
That contrast is probably what makes “Waking Up” work. CA in LA haven’t wrapped a difficult subject in an unnecessarily heavy musical package. Instead, they have produced something melodic, accessible and atmospheric, allowing the lyrics to gradually reveal what is really going on underneath.
“Waking Up” is therefore another strong addition to the “Hindsight” story. It is reflective without becoming gloomy, and catchy without making light of its subject. Sometimes waking up to the truth isn’t particularly comfortable – but it can sound rather beautiful when it is put to music this well.
Love what we do? Rock the Joint Magazine is completely free — no paywalls, no ads ruining the vibe — just passionate music journalism for 1,000+ readers a day. If you enjoy hanging out with us, please consider hitting the “Support Us” button and buying us a coffee on Ko-Fi. Even a small donation genuinely helps keep the magazine running, lets us publish more features, and reminds us that people value independent music writing.
By Stevie Ritson
Join Rock the Joint Magazine on the road to the best independent music journalism, interviews and reviews. We cover Rock, Country, Jazz, Blues and Christian music. Support us on Ko-Fi (link on each page) to help the magazine grow and value independent journalism.
Erin McCallum, new album “Full Spread” Review. – Rock The Joint Magazine