Rev’s DJ pick of the week is “Times Have Changed,” by Charlie Mars. It’s the title track of his latest album, which released on October 6th.
With this song, written in response to both changes in Mars’ life and changes in American culture at-large, he achieves something only great artists can. Through direct, detailed lyricism, Mars finds nuance in a subject that many polarize. The verses are carefully crafted to depict values. Lines like, “no neighbors dropping by, ‘cause they gotta get somewhere,” present a frustration with busyness, not with people. The chorus further clarifies that Mars isn’t afraid of progress but misses the freedom and free time that once was. “I ain’t saying I wanted things to stay the same, but man, times have changed.”
Sonically, the song blossoms. With both a piano and an organ, an electric guitar and a banjo, Mars creates a symphony of simplicity. A slide guitar enters later in the track, and on the last chorus, takes a melody reminiscent of a backup vocal. Mars’ voice stands alone, which only heightens the call for connection that the lyrics cry out for. At times, he sings a harmony atop of his own lead vocal, as he ponders the intersection of past and present. “What happened to family and the good Lord, and thanking him every night,” he asks, with nobody to address his confusion.
Mars is performing at the Bluebird Café this Friday, October 13th. You can hear more songs from his latest record there, and check out “Times Have Changed” below.
Tune in to 100.1 FM or lightning100.com all week to hear “Times Have Changed” by Charlie Mars, Rev’s DJ Pick of the Week! Share your thoughts on the track by tagging #L100DJPicks on Twitter!
