We’ve all made sacrifices for love, but how many of us have cancelled a flight across the globe after meeting someone special? Sydney alt-rock five-piece MOONWOOD are back and tell a story of just that with their latest single “Lady in Red”, released 14 February (Valentine’s Day).
It boasts stadium-ready grooves and anthemic hooks as the warm and powerful vocals rise above. From the rumbling drums in the opening bars to the swirling guitars of the bridge, you’ll be two-stepping all the way to work with wine in one hand and roses in the other. The feel-good track goes out to that special someone on the occasion, but has a particularly unique meaning to frontman Jake McCullough.
“A few years ago, I had the opportunity of a lifetime to work in Los Angeles,” he explains. “Minutes before booking my flight and telling my boss I was leaving to pursue my dream I received a text message from a girl (the Lady in Red) asking if I was leaving. In recent weeks, I developed feelings for her despite being friends for years. I wasn’t sure if she felt the same way. As far as I was concerned, I did not think I had any chance, as I only had a short timeframe to grab this opportunity in Los Angeles. Instead of flying, I decided to pursue a girl who might turn me down. The move was risky, but it was worth pursuing.”
In fear of regretting the decision for the rest of his life, Jake bit the bullet and took a shot at getting the girl of his dreams. Turns out she felt the same and he is still with her today – and, to be honest, who wouldn’t be for that kind of commitment! The accompanying video sees a suited-up Jake dancing in the streets and singing the tune through lonely passageways. As the red lyrics appear on a black-and-white background, the life of the clip truly comes from his infectious happiness.
Since sharing their debut EP Everything We Once Knew in 2022, MOONWOOD went on a 10-day retreat with the intention of recording a three-track EP and came back with 12 songs by the end of it. Their music is sure to resonate with fans of Gang of Youths, Holy Holy and Kings of Leon with a bit of a twist.
The band will be launching the single at The Vanguard in Sydney on 11 March as well as performing at the Yours & Owls To Be Honest Fridays series at Towradgi Beach Hotel in Wollongong on 24 February.
