“Medication” is the first single off indie/alt-pop band The Collection’s upcoming album… their first full-length project in five years. The multi-piece, based out of Saxapahaw, NC, has put out music independently since 2011 with the release of their debut self-titled EP, and have shared stages with The Oh Hellos, RIPE, and Sammy Rae & The Friends. They were signed to Nettwork Music Group in 2022.
Whether they are signed or unsigned, the band knows where they came from, and who got them there. “I hope you feel validated and empowered when you listen to us,” said lead singer David Wimbish. “We have a community with each other in this band, but everyone who comes to see us or listens to us is a part of that family. It’s all about strengthening those relationships. We’re here for you.”
Wimbish’s voice is highlighted by his light, dainty falsetto that he uses to perfection in their stripped-down cover of “As It Was” by Harry Styles, as well as originals like “Sing To The Moon” and “In Love With Your Soul.” He has that Noah Kahan, Quinn XCII quality to him that makes the listener hang onto his every word. These artists thrive in the slower, more intimate moments, but songs like “Rose Colored Glasses” and new song “Medicine” show The Collection’s ability to play to the strengths of mainstream audiences.
“Medicine,” from the jump, has the Ben Rector/Ben Folds adult-contemporary pop vibe. It was produced by Jeremy Lutito who has worked with artists like NEEDTOBREATHE, Ingrid Michaelson, and Joy Oladokun. Wimbish trades his signature falsetto for a pure, pop-oriented rasp throughout the song, as he sings about working to rise up from a substantial period of mental health issues: “I was scared of what it meant… if I needed medicine. Just to feel like me again, and keep my demons in every now and then.”
The chorus doesn’t establish a complete turnaround of his mental state, but more of a show of grace for himself moving forward. “So now I’m dropping the weight of the earth, just long enough to give me a rebirth. Cause I deserve to be well… yeah, I deserve to be well.” The bridge expands on that idea of grace as if he’s giving himself permission to feel again: “Growin’ old, and growing up. Being alone without being stuck. Lose control, fall in love, makin’ my way and my own luck.
“Medicine” could easily fit as both the first or last song on the project… either opening with it to establish a refreshed, healthier Wimbish, or closing with it after building up to that moment of clarity. If more of the record is in line with this infectious, uplifting arena pop sound, The Collection could be gearing up for their most prolific era yet.
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