Cardinal Bloom’s “The Only Place I’ve Ever Known”: 

Cardinal Bloom is set to release their album “The Only Place I’ve Ever Known” on Sept. 27. Deeply rooted in the Utah music scene, they are known for their captivating blend of indie rock, folk and alternative influences.

Formed at Snow College and now based in Salt Lake City, the quartet quickly gained local recognition with their breakout single “She’s Just a Friend,” which will be featured on their highly anticipated upcoming album. Their sound, marked by introspective lyrics and dynamic instrumentation, resonates with their growing fanbase, earning them a reputation for authenticity and raw emotion within SLC’s music scene.

A Love Letter to Utah

While Jacob, the bassist, wasn’t able to join us for the discussion, I had the opportunity to speak with Joey (vocals and guitar), Nate (drums) and Josh (guitar) ahead of their upcoming album. They expressed their excitement and personal connection to this upcoming release, describing it as their most honest work to date.

“I would say nostalgia is the overall theme [of the album.] I think a lot of the songs tackle deeper, subsets within that. Whether it be about relationships, friends, or past significant others, it’s those feelings of remembering those moments, growing apart from people, and moving on to the next. Within that, [showcasing] conversations and realizations as you get older,” Joey notes.

For Cardinal Bloom, the album represents a homecoming of sorts, as its themes revolve around familiar landscapes and shared memories of the place they grew up in. They spoke about the importance of grounding their music in the stories and experiences of their hometown, stating that the record is as much about personal growth as it is about capturing the spirit of where they come from.

Listening to “The Only Place I’ve Ever Known” feels like the nostalgia of long summer days spent riding bikes around your town with high school friends, daring to venture further than you were ever allowed. It’s the sensation of laying in the sun, feeling it scorch your skin, while you’re too engrossed in the joy of the moment to think about reapplying sunscreen. This album captures the essence of youthful exuberance and the bittersweet pang of first loves and heartbreaks. As adults, the way we reflect on these experiences becomes a maze of confusion and longing. This record embodies that confusion and the inevitable shift in how we view these formative moments. It’s a touching exploration of the longing to hold onto a past that seems increasingly elusive as we grow up and navigate the complexities of our adult lives. 

Here are a few standout tracks from “The Only Place I’ve Ever Known” that truly highlight the album’s prominent themes.

“Nothing Stays The Same”

“Nothing Stays The Same” emerges as a visceral declaration of change and personal growth. The song’s dynamic shift in tempo and energy creates a sonic representation of the internal struggle that accompanies transformation. The lyrics, “Did I change / Have I lost my way / Nothing ever really stays the same,” grapple with the uncertainty and introspection that follows major life shifts.

As the song crescendos into a fast-paced climax, it mirrors the moment of revelation and acceptance that change is an inevitable part of life. This track invoked in me a powerful mix of exhilaration and melancholy, truly showcasing how it feels to embrace change while mourning the past. It’s a celebration of a tumultuous yet liberating journey of growth, encouraging listeners to find solace in the acceptance of their evolving selves.

“Denver”

“Denver” carries a reflective, bittersweet quality, beginning with a slow, atmospheric vibe. The lyrics “Feels like you don’t even know me, maybe there’s nothing left to know” convey a profound sense of alienation and disconnection as if the speaker is coming to terms with the end of a significant chapter. The dreamy chorus, with its line “I’m leaving today,” emphasizes the complexity of saying goodbye to something deeply valued. The catchy drum beat and bass line work together to create a sense of both longing and inevitability, capturing the wistful essence of departure.

The song mirrors the process of letting go, understanding that while moving on is painful, it’s often a necessary step toward personal growth and self-discovery.

“The Porch”

“The Porch” closes the album with a poignant sense of acceptance. The folky guitar sets a reflective mood, while the lyrics “Was this the place that always made you feel at home” evoke a deep sense of familiarity and comfort. As the song progresses, it addresses the difficulty of accepting change with the line “Years will pass as fast as they are slow,” acknowledging the complexity of time and memory. The refrain “Don’t say goodbye, I’ll just see you later” provides a sense of closure while maintaining the connection to past experiences.

This closing track captures the essence of reconciling with change, emphasizing that while we may move on, the memories of “the only place I’ve ever known” remain an integral part of who we are. It’s a moving conclusion to the album, capturing the reality of growing up and cherishing the past while embracing the future. 

Don’t Miss Out—Experience Cardinal Bloom Live!

As Cardinal Bloom gears up for the release of “The Only Place I’ve Ever Known,” their deeply personal and nostalgic album is set to resonate with anyone who has ever looked back on their past with both fondness and melancholy. Their music beautifully captures the delicate balance between cherishing memories and embracing change, creating a soundtrack for both reflection and growth.

Fans will have a chance to experience these evocative tracks live when Cardinal Bloom performs at Soundwell in SLC on November 15th. This show promises to be a heartfelt celebration of their journey and a testament to their unwavering connection to their roots.

Don’t miss this opportunity to witness and band whose authentic sound and lyrics continue to define the heart of SLC’s music scene.

Secure your tickets here! Look out for more updates on Cardinal Bloom on their Instagram @cardinalbloomofficial