Who: Martin Van Ruin

From: Chicago, IL

Song: ‘Current Day’

Latest Record: Current Day (which was released on Friday August 17)

What About It: “Current Day” is a simple song that didn’t take long to write or put together — I laid down the acoustic and the vocals, took off and [drummer, synth, guitar player] Pete Falknor did the rest (he may have redone the acoustic too, haha).

Writing it, I was thinking of the word “current” and how it can mean a few things. It can mean “now.” It can be about a shock of electricity. It can be about the force of a river. So “Current Day” felt like a good description of the times we’re living in, when so many people are feeling like they’re getting pulled under by the current — and how hard it can be for them to stay above water. It’s a love song, too.” – band leader Derek Nelson